Vol. 574 No. 1
454 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) will be allowed to undertake a programme in Coolmine Therapeutic Community in Dublin 2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26224/03]
The person referred to is serving a four year prison sentence which was imposed at Dublin Circuit Court on 27 May 2003 for the possession of drugs for the purpose of sale or supply. The sentencing judge indicated that the final 12 months of this sentence should be suspended on condition that this man undergoes a treatment programme designed by the probation and welfare service during the period of the suspended sentence. On that basis he will fall for release on remission on 26 August 2005.
In view of the serious nature of this offence and the significant balance of this custodial sentence left to serve I am not prepared to now authorise an earlier temporary release than 26 August 2005 for this man for the purpose of attending a treatment programme in Coolmine Therapeutic Community. The person concerned will, in the meantime, be encouraged to avail of the various treatment programmes available in our prisons to assist offenders in addressing their addiction problems.
