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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Oct 1992

Vol. 423 No. 6

Written Answers. - Prison Medical Care.

Michael Lowry

Question:

44 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice whether he has satisfied himself with the current level of medical care in our prisons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Patrick D. Harte

Question:

49 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Justice whether he has satisfied himself with the current level of medical care in our prisons; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 49 together. I am at present in the process of improving medical care facilities. The following is a brief outline of the position.

Doctors are appointed on a part-time basis to each prison and place of detention. They are responsible for the primary medical care of prisoners. They are assisted by prison medical orderlies who provide round the clock cover in all closed prisons. Where necessary prisoners attend outside hospitals for specialist in-patient and out-patient treatment.
Psychiatric services are provided by visiting psychiatrists employed by the health boards. In the case of Dublin institutions psychiatrists from the forensic service of the Eastern Health Board at the Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum provide regular weekly assessment and treatment sessions. Prisoners requiring in-patient psychiatric care may be transferred to the Central Mental Hospital.
The Director of Prison Medical Services, who was appointed in 1990 on the recommendation of the Committee of Inquiry into the Penal System (1985) (the Whitaker Committee), has reviewed the level of medical care being provided by doctors and psychiatrists having regard to present day needs. On his advice I have authorised negotiations with the Irish Medical Organisation, which represents prison doctors and psychiatrists, on revised contracts which would have the effect of enhancing the level of medical care. I am also considering the employment of some qualified nurses for the prisons.
My Department employ three psychologists for work in the prisons and steps are in train to recruit a further three psychologists in 1993. My Department is also at present about to recruit a pharmacist to supervise the provision of prescribed medicines to persons in custody.
Finally I should like to mention that construction work on a special accommodation unit in Mountjoy Prison for prisoners suffering from a variety of medical conditions, including prisoners who are HIV positive, is almost complete and will be brought into operation in the New Year.
I am satisfied, given the current level of medical care and the improvements in train, that the needs of prisoners are being addressed adequately. I will, of course, be keeping the position under review.
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