Noel Ahern
Question:105 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current situation in relation to the prison officer who is seconded to work closely with the Prison Officers Association; when this commenced and the length of time it will continue; the current annual cost to his Department of salary, overtime, expenses and so on; if the original secondment was made on the request, or with the approval, of the Prison Officers Association; if the officer is working for, and under, the instruction of the association or the Minister and prison authorities; if the reason for the appointment is generally known and understood within the prison service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22542/97]