Vol. 562 No. 1
439 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the need for extra medical and para-medical staff in Irish prisons now that he has promised the closure of padded cells; if new staff will accompany the establishment of new observation rooms; when the decision to close down these cells will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5552/03]
As the Deputy will be aware, I have recently given a commitment to replace, as soon as possible, all traditional padded cells with new safety observation cells which, while soft surfaced to protect the prisoner from self-harm, will fully meet the needs and respect the dignity of prisoners in every way consistent with their safety. Proposals are being developed by senior officials in the Irish Prison Service to give effect to this commitment, in consultation with prison governors. As it happens, I understand that the governors have arranged to discuss the matter tomorrow Wednesday 26 February, 2003.
I expect that the final proposals on the new arrangements will be remitted back to me for policy direction in the near future and that any issue regarding additional medical or para-medical staff will be addressed at that stage. However, I am informed that the case for extra medical and para-medical staff in Irish prisons is largely independent of the use of padded cells and that, while substantial improvements in medical services for prisoners have been made in recent years, the situation continues to be kept under review.
