Prison Service Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2017

Tuesday, 9 May 2017

Questions (130)

John McGuinness

Question:

130. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if her attention has been drawn to the fact that prison officers are being disciplined for not wearing full uniform while escorting prisoners to hospitals and so on in spite of the fact that there is not a sufficient number of stab proof vests, batons and radios to cover all prison officers on escorts each day; if she will authorise an audit of all of the prisons to ensure that this issue is addressed without delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21752/17]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by my officials of the Irish Prison Service (IPS) that the wearing of uniform on Escort Duties is required by the IPS Escort Standard. All prisons are supplied with the appropriate amount of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that they request or indicate is needed i.e. stab proof vests, batons, radios etc. Such PPE is only authorised for use on High Risk escorts, and this only after a risk assessment (HIRARC) is completed. I am also advised that no disciplinary code is ongoing for the non wearing of full uniform while conducting escorts to hospitals.