asked the Minister for Justice if and when he will bring forward the convention on the transfer of sentenced persons for ratification; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
40.
Written Answers. - Transfer of Sentenced Persons Convention.
19.
asked the Minister for Justice when the Government intends ratifying the European convention on the repatriation of sentenced persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
47.
asked the Minister for Justice if he will ratify the conventions for the transfer of sentenced persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
85.
asked the Minister for Justice the proposals, if any, he has to ratify the European convention on the transfer of sentenced prisoners; and the legislative changes which are required to enable ratification.
86.
(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Justice if the Government intend to ratify the convention for the transfer of sentenced persons to enable a small number of prisoners at present serving sentences in jails in the United Kingdom to be repatriated to complete their sentence in Irish jails.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19, 40, 47, 85 and 86 together.
I am at present considering issues which arise in relation to the ratification of the convention, including the possible effect of implementation on the level of the prison population here at a time when there is already severe pressure on existing prison accommodation. Consideration has also to be given to what legislative measures may be necessary to enable ratification of the convention to proceed. Given the difficult issues involved I am not in a position at this stage to indicate when this country might be in a position to ratify the convention.