Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2011
35 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to expand the numbers of prisoners participating in the pilot project on early temporary release; his plans to continue this pilot project beyond the current six-month lifespan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37919/11]
View answerA number of key recommendations contained in the Thornton Hall Review Group Report are receiving priority attention in my Department and many are in the process of being implemented, most notably the introduction of an incentivised scheme for earned temporary release under which offenders who pose no threat to the community are offered early temporary release in return for supervised community service. In this regard, a six month pilot project commenced in October 2011 in which it is envisaged that a total of 130 prisoners will participate. I am informed by the Irish Prison Service that 39 prisoners have been released under the scheme to date with 5 more due for release this week, and a further 13 the following week. An evaluation of the pilot project will be undertaken after six months following which a decision will be made regarding any future plans.
