Ivor Callely
Question:132 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice if she issues short-term and full temporary releases for convicted criminal offenders due to lack of accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5530/97]
Written Answers. - Release of Prisoners.
All offenders sentenced to terms of imprisonment or detention are committed to prison on foot of the warrants issued by the sentencing court. In time, some prisoners do, for various reasons, qualify for temporary release and in some of these cases pressure on prison accommodation is a factor. The extensive prisons building programme which I have initiated will when complete provide over 800 extra prison places reducing the current deficit in prison accommodation and alleviating the consequent need to release offenders due to a shortage of prison accommodation.