Richard Bruton
Question:164 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the number of early releases from prison during the last 12 months, outside standard remission; and the criteria used for selection.
Written Answers. - Prisoners Early Release Numbers.
Statistics in relation to the number of offenders granted early release over the last 12 months are not readily available. Statistics relating to the granting of temporary release are compiled annually for inclusion in the annual report on Prisons and Places of Detention and work is at present in progress on the compilation of the 1989 figures.
In deciding whether temporary release should be granted in particular cases, regard is had to factors such as the nature of the offence, length of sentence served, behaviour while in custody and the previous record of the offender. An overriding factor in reaching decisions is, of course, the need to protect the public.