Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2022
364. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the capacity of the new block at a women’s prison in Limerick; the details of the health and wellbeing facilities that will be present in the new block; and if women at the prison will have full access to any additional supports and or services they require while in the new block. [21750/22]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that a contract was signed in February 2019 for a major redevelopment of Limerick Prison which included the construction of a new prison facility for female prisoners.
The design of the facility for female prisoners is based on the principle of rehabilitation and normalisation reflecting contemporary design standards. A mix of accommodation units is being provided which will comprise of bedroom units, some apartment style units and a mother and baby unit. The accommodation will be based around an external landscaped courtyard setting in keeping with the design principles on creating a safe therapeutic space and supportive regime.
The Female Prison will provide accommodation for a minimum of 50 prisoners, the accommodation comprises of a mixture of single bedrooms and studio apartment style accommodation, all with individual en-suites.
The women accommodated in this new facility will have full access to all supports and services required while in the prison. The needs of the female prisoner’s health and wellbeing will be addressed with the inclusion of a healthcare suite with dentistry, medical assessment and consultation rooms.
A work training and education suite with a mixture of classrooms and workshops will also be available. Educational services are provided in partnership with a range of educational agencies including the Educational Training Boards, Public Library Services, the Open University and the Arts Council.
The facility will also provide a multi flexible visits regime to facilitate the provision of a variety of In-Reach services such as mental health services and addiction counselling.
A prisoner canteen and gymnasium is also included in the new build. This is expected to be completed by the end of Summer 2022 and the new accommodation will become operational by the end of Q4 of 2022. This timeline assumes no further impact on construction activity or supply chain issues due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
