Vol. 432 No. 5
29 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice if, in framing the new Bill dealing with crime, she has taken into account the impact the legislation will have on prison space; if she will pari passu make provision for the accommodation of more prisoners serving longer sentences, as envisaged in view of the already overcrowded conditions obtaining in our prisons; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I have as previously announced, begun a wide ranging review of official policy in relation to the operation of prisons and the treatment of offenders generally. I have asked that the review should include consideration of several options including the wider development of community based sanctions as an alternative to prison custody, the development of more appropriate parole arrangements and the provision of more cell spaces. Regard will be had in this review to changes in the law which may have implications for demand on prison spaces.
