Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 8 Jun 1995

Vol. 454 No. 2

Written Answers. - Counselling and Psychological Services.

Robert Molloy

Question:

35 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Justice the counselling and psychological services available for offenders in custody between 16 and 18 years of age; whether they are accommodated among the body of adult prisoners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10414/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

Offenders between 16 and 18 years of age, in common with all offenders in prisons-places of detention, have access to a full range of counselling and psychological services. These are provided for example by: doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, probation and welfare officers, chaplains, teachers, workshop instructors, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous and the Samaritans — on a 24 hour, 365 day a year basis, by telephone. Full details are set out in the Department's policy document "The Management of Offenders — A Five Year Plan" published last year which also indicates improvements that are being implemented.

Offenders between the ages of 16-18 years are held in separate accommodation for juveniles in St. Patrick's Institution and where practicable in Wheatfield. Those who are held in adult prisons are accommodated with other young offenders or with selected older prisoners. I am, at present, looking at ways of rearranging available accommodation to ensure that all young prisoners are kept separate from adults.