asked the Minister for Justice the criteria used in deciding on temporary release or parole for convicted prisoners.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prisoner Parole Criteria.
51.
There are two kinds of temporary release: (a) day-to-day temporary release normally for employment involving return to the prison or place of detention at night; and (b) full temporary release either for a specific period or until end of sentence.
There are no absolute standards or criteria laid down for the granting of temporary release. Each case is decided on its individual merits and then only after full consideration of all relevant factors.
Day-to-day temporary release is normally considered when an offender is nearing the end of his sentence. Full temporary release is considered on compassionate grounds in cases where urgent family or domestic circumstances arise. It is also considered in cases where an offender has been progressing satisfactorily on day-to-day temporary release and full liberty under supervision for the remainder of his sentence would be likely to further advance rehabilitation.
Factors taken into account in deciding whether temporary release may be allowed include the nature and the circumstances of the offence, the offender's own attitude towards rehabilitation, his educational, training or employment needs and opportunities, his conduct while in custody, his family background and the general background.