asked the Minister for Justice to state fully the facts in reference to the treatment of the prisoners in Mountjoy Jail who have been kept in solitary confinement for various periods during the last six months, and in particular to state the exact details as to the treatment of Aidan Sweeney, Patrick McGuinness, Seán Russell, George Mooney and David Fitzgerald, giving also the ages and conditions of health as reported by the medical officer of the prison in each of these latter cases.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Mountjoy Prisoners.
No prisoner has been kept in solitary confinement in Mountjoy Prison during the last six months.
The particulars as to age, health and treatment of the prisoners named in the question are as follows:—
Aidan Sweeney: Age 20 years; health good; undergoing sentence of two years' imprisonment.
Patrick McGuinness: Age 25 years; health good; undergoing sentence of two years' imprisonment.
Sean Russell: Age 38 years; health good; undergoing sentence of three months' imprisonment.
George Mooney: Age 28 years; health good; undergoing sentence of two years' imprisonment.
David Fitzgerald: Age 29 years; undergoing sentence of two years' imprisonment.
Each of these prisoners, with the exception of Fitzgerald, is receiving ordinary prison treatment. Fitzgerald has been receiving hospital treatment for a chronic cough since last October.
For some time past these prisoners have voluntarily abstained from exercise and have refused to work.