Bernard J. Durkan
Question:23 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice whether she has satisfied herself that sufficient prison places exist to cater for the number of serious offenders; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Prison Places.
On a daily basis about 2,200 persons are in custody in our prisons. Prisoner numbers of this order create ongoing pressure on available custodial accommodation, facilities and services for prisoners. However, continuous progress is being made on a programme to provide additional accommodation.
In recent years a new institution, which accommodates 320 persons, was provided at Wheatfield, and a new health care unit at Mountjoy which accommodates 57 persons was also opened. The Deputy will be aware that as part of the comprehensive law and order package I announced last December, 210 additional prison spaces will be provided at a total estimated cost of £25 million. 150 of these spaces will cater for male offenders. The remaining 60 additional spaces will be provided by way of a selfcontained facility for 60 female offenders which will be designed specifically to meet their special needs. I am satisfied that with these additions to the prison system sufficient places will continue to be available for serious offenders for whom no other alternative would be appropriate.
I expect shortly to publish a five year plan-policy document for the prison system which will contain detailed proposals for a long term strategy in relation to a wide range of issues, including those of accommodation and custody alternatives.