Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Apr 2000

Vol. 518 No. 4

Written Answers. - Health Status of Prisoners.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

221 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage of prisoners who have a learning disorder such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; if he will commission appropriate qualitative research in this regard if this information is not readily available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11882/00]

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

The information that the Deputy is seeking is not currently available. I have commissioned a survey of the health status of prisoners which is being undertaken by the Department of Health and Children promotion at NUI, Galway. I understand that this study will give some indication of the prevalence of ADD-ADHD in the prison population. When the results are available I would hope to publish them without undue delay.