asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the repeated reports and complaints of conditions under which the prisoners in Hare Park Camp are detained, he will consider the advisability of appointing a committee composed of the different parties in the Dáil to visit the camp and report back to the Dáil as to the conditions as regards housing, sanitation, food and hospital accommodation provided for these prisoners.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CONDITIONS IN HARE PARK CAMP.
I am not aware of the reports and complaints which the Deputy suggests have been made, and I am satisfied that the conditions under which the prisoners in Hare Park Camp are detained are what they should be.
Arrangements are nearing completion for the appointment of independent Visiting Committees to inspect that camp and other places of internment, and to visit the prisoners detained therein. They will report direct to an Executive Minister (either the Minister for Defence or the Minister for Home Affairs, as the case may be), and it will be such Minister's duty to satisfy himself that the conditions of the prisons or camps are good and healthy.
In these circumstances, I do not see the necessity for the appointment of such a Committee as is suggested by the Deputy.
Will the President say how soon will this body pay a visit to the camp?
I cannot say exactly the date. I say that arrangements are nearing completion for the appointment of an independent Visiting Committee. In the meantime, I may say that I have had reports from Medical Officers on the condition of affairs in the camp.