asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the plight of a person (details supplied) a remand prisoner in Armagh Women's Prison, against whom there is only the word of a paid informer and who is being subjected to the most degrading treatment including regular strip searching; and if he will pursue this girl's human rights with the British Government.
Written Answers. - Armagh Remand Prisoners.
330.
Yes, and my Department are in contact with the British authorities concerning the person mentioned by the Deputy.
331.
asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that women remand prisoners in Armagh Women's Prison continue to be strip searched in a most degrading manner; if he will make further representations to the British Government in this regard; and if all else fails, if he will pursue the matter through the Court of Human Rights.
The Deputy will be aware that I have previously told the House that the practice of strip searching is degrading and that I take a very serious view of it. The matter has been raised with the British authorities on several occasions. The Deputy can be assured that I keep the matter under close review.
I believe that any grievances people may have are more appropriately pursued at this stage by way of individual application to the Human Rights Commission.