Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 May 2022
209. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Justice when physical contact with visiting children will recommence in all prisons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22478/22]
View answerI am advised by my officials in the Irish Prison Service that they continue to review and modify Covid-19 restrictions which have been in place as a result of the pandemic.
The most recent significant surge of Covid-19 in our communities was also reflected in our prisons with multiple outbreaks occurring across the estate. This situation continues to present a high risk of transmission to the prison population and this risk is higher with the increased movement of people in and out of our prisons.
Restrictive measures have been modified in line with the various announcements made by Government and in line with advice from Public Health/HSE and the Irish Prison Service National Infection Control team. The Service is acutely aware of the need for prisoners to maintain contact with their families and the new video visit system which was introduced in 2020 continues to allow families to maintain contact with those in custody.
Since 14 February 2022 the number of visitors permitted on an in-person visit increased to three people, two of whom may be a child (under 18 years of age). Prisoners are currently entitled to receive one thirty minute physical visit every fortnight and one video visit. Prisoners may also choose to avail of a video visit instead of a physical visit if that is their preference. Although no decision has yet been taken in relation to the resumption of weekly visits, non-screened visits will recommence from Monday 9 May 2022 subject to necessary infection control measures. This will allow for physical contact between prisoners and their children. The potential return to weekly visits will be kept under constant review.
