Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 March 2022
98. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice the number of cells in the prison estate that do not have in cell sanitation; the prisons in which these cells are situated; the plans in place to ensure all cells have full in cell sanitation in the very near future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16186/22]
View answerThe provision of safe and secure custody and dignity of care to people in prison in Ireland is a priority for the Irish Prison Service and for me, as Minister for Justice.
The Service has committed to the provision of in cell sanitation throughout the prison estate as part of its Capital Strategy. I am pleased to note that very significant progress has already been made in that regard and only Limerick and Portlaoise Prison continue to have some cells without in-cell sanitation. All newly constructed prison accommodation has in-cell sanitation and shower facilities.
A major refurbishment of Mountjoy Prison was completed in 2014 which included the provision of in cell sanitation and upgrade of the cellular accommodation. In 2016 a new purpose designed modern prison opened in Cork replacing the old prison facility.
The Deputy will be glad to know that a major construction project is currently nearing completion at Limerick Prison which will provide new accommodation for male and female prisoners. The completion of this project will replace accommodation in the old jail, some of which dates from its opening in 1821, as well as ending the practice referred to as ‘slopping out’ at Limerick Prison. I understand the new accommodation will be operational towards the end of this year and will include rehabilitation and support facilities.
When all of the works are completed in Limerick, the only area without in-cell sanitation will be the E Block of Portlaoise Prison. This currently accommodates 19 people, representing approximately 0.5 % of the prison population. To address this final element, the Irish Prison Service is conducting exploratory work to assess the feasibility of installing in-cell sanitation at that block. Preliminary engineering surveys have been completed which is a necessary prerequisite to assess how best the project can be undertaken in a cost effective manner cognisant of the age, condition and fabric of the building. I am advised that a contract has been awarded for the construction of a sample cell at E block and the outcome of this project and future operational requirements will help inform next steps in this regard. I hope to progress this necessary work as soon as possible.
