Tony Gregory
Question:84 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice the reason for the recent absence of any Garda foot or mobile patrols around the perimeter of Mountjoy Prison, Dublin 7.
Written Answers. - Mountjoy Prison.
The Garda authorities inform me that the area around the perimeter of Mountjoy Prison is patrolled on a regular basis by both foot and mobile patrols. The area is patrolled daily by foot patrols from Mountjoy Garda station, which is adjacent to the prison, and the four mobile units attached to that station patrol this area frequently in addition to paying attention to the area while travelling to and from the station. The area is also patrolled regularly by the Divisional Task Force and the Special Detective Unit.
It must be remembered that gardaí are on duty inside the prison also. Furthermore, surveillance outside the prison need not necessarily be by uniformed officers and hence their presence in the area may not be noticeable.
Nevertheless, I would be concerned if security in this area were not of the highest order and I shall draw the matter raised by the Deputy to the attention of the Commissioner.
Tony Gregory
Question:85 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice the reason crowds are congregating at the rear side gates of Mountjoy Prison, Dublin 7; if she will request the prison authorities to make alternative arrangements to prevent this happening as it is causing great concern to the elderly local community, and it is also restricting the use of the Royal Canal walkways, a popular local amenity.
I am aware that, on occasions, offenders returning to prison following periods of temporary release have tended to congregate at the entrances to Mountjoy Prison. I have, however, taken specific steps to reduce the numbers returning at particular times and I am confident that this will greatly alleviate the concerns of local residents and others who use the local amenities.