Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 May 2012
323 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will indicate, if known, the number of prisoners known to have escaped or absconded leave, supervised or unsupervised in each of the past four years to date; the number recaptured; the number, if any, still at large; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23028/12]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that the information requested relating to the years 2008 to 4 May 2012 is outlined in the following table:
|
Year |
Number of Absconders |
|
2008 |
122 |
|
2009 |
133 |
|
2010 |
112 |
|
2011 |
86 |
|
2012 (up to 4 May) |
33 |
The term "abscond" refers to a person leaving the confines of an open centre without permission or a person who absconds from the custody of a prison officer while outside the confines of the prison for example, attending court or a hospital appointment. The term "escape" refers to a person who flees from prison custody.
Irish Prison Service records indicate that on 7 March 2012 there were 64 prisoners listed as unlawfully at large having escaped/absconded during this time period. There were no escapes from within the confines of a closed prison during the years mentioned.
The Gardaí are informed when prisoners abscond and have the power to detain, arrest, and return such persons to prison. Experience has shown that the vast majority of offenders who abscond return or are returned to custody to complete their sentences within a short timeframe.
