Vol. 421 No. 9
65 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline (a) the measures taken and (b) the costs involved to date to his Department to address the difficulties of prisoners with the HIV/AIDS virus; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
There are a number of arrangements in place, including enhanced medical care, psychiatric, psychological, welfare and educational services, to help prisoners suffering from HIV/AIDS. In addition a new unit, which will be completed this year, is being provided in Mountjoy Prison to cater for the special needs of persons suffering from communicable diseases, including HIV/AIDS. I understand that the Advisory Group on Communicable Diseases, which was set up by my predecessor to advise on future policies for the management of prisoners suffering from communicable diseases, is finalising its report and that I may expect to have it shortly. As soon as I receive it I intend to give it priority attention.
Services provided specifically for prisoners with HIV/AIDS are not costed separately from services provided for prisoners generally.
