asked the Minister for Justice the number of cell places available in the prison system; and the actual number of persons in custody including prisoners on special leave.
Written Answers. - Custodial Accommodation in the Prison System.
51.
I take it that in referring to the number of cell places the Deputy has in mind the overall custodial accommodation available in the prison system. This would include dormitory-type accommodation and the use of rooms in open centres as well as actual cells. The prison system is being used at present to accommodate a daily average prison population of about 1,950. In addition, about 260 offenders are currently on various forms of temporary release.