Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 June 2012
107 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if appropriate medical attention is being made available in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28738/12]
View answerThe Irish Prison Service provides general health care services for the assessment, treatment and care of prisoners comparable to those available in a community primary care setting and which are appropriate to a custodial environment. Prisoners are referred to external specialist services as clinically indicated by the prison doctor and referrals are on the same basis as for citizens in the general community covered by the GMS (Medical Card) Scheme.
Having consulted with the Irish Prison Service and clinical personnel in Midlands Prison, I have been assured that the person in question is receiving the appropriate medical care which his condition warrants, including prescribed medications and ongoing engagement with specialist services. As I am sure you are aware, however, medical confidentiality is a time honoured principle of professional health care ethics and accordingly I am not at liberty to divulge information relating to a person's medical records.
