Joe Costello
Question:362 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to release a person (details supplied) under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement. [24385/02]
Written Answers. - Prisoner Releases.
The person referred to is currently serving a total sentence of forty years for false imprisonment, wounding with intent and possession of firearms. Allowing for normal remission, he will be due for release in May 2018. In accordance with the Criminal Justice (Release of Prisoners) Act, 1998, the person was specified by my predecessor in November 2000 to be a qualifying prisoner for the purposes of the Good Friday Agreement. The case was subsequently referred to the Release of Prisoners Commission for its advice in accordance with the Act. The commission forwarded its recommendations on this case to my office on 31 July 2002. I am now finalising my consideration of this person's case, including the commission's recommendations, and will make a decision on the matter shortly.