Tony Gregory
Question:68 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make representations to the British authorities regarding the condition of a prisoner (details supplied) in Belmarsh Prison, London. [24574/96]
Written Answers. - Prisoner Conditions.
Liz O'Donnell
Question:71 Ms O'Donnell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed regarding the conditions under which a prisoner (details supplied) is being held in an English prison on remand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24713/96]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 68 and 71 together.
I am aware of the case to which the Deputies refer. On my instructions, it is being monitored by the Irish Embassy in London. An official of the Irish Embassy paid this person a consular visit during a round of prison visits between 18-20 November 1996. His case was raised at a subsequent meeting between Embassy officials and the relevant British authorities. In particular, representations were made regarding his categorisation as an exceptional risk prisoner and the conditions under which he is being held.
The British authorities have responded by stating that it is their view that this person warrants this categorisation and that his conditions of imprisonment result from the category under which he is held.
I would like to assure the Deputy that we will continue to monitor this person's case in the period ahead. We will also continue to raise matters of humanitarian concern relating to the Republican prisoners with the British authorities through the framework of the Anglo-Irish Conference and the Irish Embassy in London.