asked the Minister for Justice if special cells were constructed at Portlaoise Prison, County Laois in the last two to three years together with adjoining rooms for a security officer; the cost of such works, if any; if the facilities referred to are fit for human habitation; and if these were considered unfit for human habitation at any time in the recent past.
Written Answers - Portlaoise Prison.
98.
The area in question was always part of the existing prison and was developed over the last two years as a reserve separation area. This was done because difficulties were foreseen in the operation of the main separation area of the prison in particular circumstances. The area consists of five cells together with appropriate staff facilities.
As part of the redevelopment new lighting was installed, a toilet and shower installed and new cell doors (fabricated at the prison by prison staff and prisoners) were fitted. A heating pipe had also to be diverted. The work in question was carried out by prison trades staff as part of their normal duty. Materials for the work cost in the region of £6,000.
There was never any question of the area as redeveloped being "unfit for human habitation" and it is available for use as and when needed.