Luke 'Ming' Flanagan
Question:84. Deputy Luke 'Ming' Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans for Harristown House, Castlerea, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13443/13]
View answerThursday, 14 March 2013
Questions (84)
Written answers
Harristown House is a 22 roomed two storey property situated just outside of the boundary wall of Castlerea Prison. It was most recently used for accommodating persons who were under the care of the Probation Service. The property has been refurbished with the intention of using it as a low-security facility.
Prisoners housed there will be those who have demonstrated good behaviour over a period of time, have engaged with the therapeutic services in the prison and are deemed to be a low risk of absconding and a low risk of re-offending. It is intended that the prisoners housed at Harristown House will be taking part in a Temporary Release Programme. It is expected that five to six prisoners will initially be involved and eventually up to 15 prisoners. Those involved will be employed in the grounds under the control of an Industrial Manager. They will be obliged to abide by all the normal terms of temporary release as well as reporting daily to the Main Gate at Castlerea Prison. CCTV coverage of the house and surrounding areas will be monitored from the control room. They will also be visited during the day by prison staff. Harristown House will be secured by a fence and there will be strict conditions on access and egress at night.
The usual risk assessments will be completed by my officials in the Irish Prison Service, prior to any prisoners being moved into the facility.