(Cavan): asked the Minister for Justice whether he has yet received a report from the officer of his Department appointed to investigate prison after-care and probations; if so, on what date he received it; and what action has been taken on it.
40.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prison Probation Service.
39.
(Cavan): asked the Minister for Justice if the officer of his Department appointed to investigate probation and prison after-care is still engaged in probation administration; or if he has returned to normal duties.
41.
(Cavan): asked the Minister for Justice if there is a probation administration officer in his Department or if the position is vacant; if so, how long it has been vacant; and when it is intended to fill the vacancy.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 39 to 41 together.
I received the report in question last July. It recommends a considerable expansion of the probation and after-care service and envisages the provision of a new central headquarters in Dublin as well as the recruitment of a substantial number of additional probation officers, prison welfare officers and clerical staff.
Having regard to the fact that there are considerable financial implications, the Deputy will appreciate that the proposals require the fullest examination. I expect however to be in a position to announce a decision in the near future.
The officer who made the report is now engaged on his normal duties. These include general supervision of the probation service. I am deferring the filling of the present vacancy in the post of probation administration officer until the reorganisation and expansion of the probation and after-care service has been completed.