Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2004
197 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 840 of 27 January 2004, the type of facility and location at which inmates currently located in Loughan House will be detained following the change in status of Loughan House; the location at which future inmates who would be suitable to such a facility will be placed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5399/04]
View answerAs I have indicated many times in recent months, it is not my preferred course of action to change the status of Loughan House. The Government decision on this matter makes it clear that this step will only take place if there is no resolution to the ongoing negotiations taking place with the Prison Officers' Association. In effect, the future role of Loughan House is linked to this process. However, if a change of status for Loughan House becomes necessary, the most appropriate location for each prisoner will be considered on a case by case basis. The facility itself will continue in operation, albeit under a different management in the event of a change of status, and will continue to accept prisoners under sentence on conditional temporary release arrangements which would have the same effect as current residency.
