Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 7

Written Answers. - Prison Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

247 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the precise number by which he proposes to increase the number of prison spaces in addition to those places already approved and provided for by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17276/97]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

In July of this year I received Government approval for the construction of a new 400 space prison at Portlaoise. The planning for this prison is well under way and my Department has received "expressions of interest" in relation to the construction, design and finance of this project which are currently being assessed. When the planning and tendering process has been completed, the construction will be commenced, without delay.

I have also received Government approval for the provision of 18 extra spaces at the female prison Mountjoy. A further ten places have been provided at Limerick prison. Facilities are being enhanced at Wheatfield and the Curragh which will, when complete, enable in excess of 60 additional prisoners to be accommodated in these institutions.

The current programme will, therefore, deliver in excess of 1,000 additional places over the first two years of this Government's term of office.

The provision of other additional spaces is under consideration at present and I assure the Deputy that I intend to honour in full the commitment as stated in An Action Programme for the Millennium, in relation to prison spaces.