Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
1052. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the number of prisoners who have become absent from prison without leave before the end of their prison sentence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18324/23]
View answerI am advised by my officials in the Irish Prison Service the total number of people who have absconded from custody since 2014 is 79, of which 7 are currently at large.
|
Year |
Number of Absconders |
Number Still at Large |
|
2023 |
1 |
0 |
|
2022 |
2 |
2 |
|
2021 |
14 |
0 |
|
2020 |
10 |
2 |
|
2019 |
6 |
0 |
|
2018 |
7 |
0 |
|
2017 |
6 |
0 |
|
2016 |
9 |
0 |
|
2015 |
13 |
2 |
|
2014 |
11 |
1 |
|
Total |
79 |
7 |
The Irish Prison Service defines an absconder as someone who leaves an open centre without permission.
An Garda Sìochàna are informed when a person absconds from custody and Gardaí have the power to detain, arrest and return that person to custody.
Experience has shown that the vast majority of people who abscond return voluntarily or are returned to custody to complete their sentences within a short timeframe.
