Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 2 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 2

Written Answers. - Prison Deaths Report.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

52 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline the number of the 57 recommendations made by the Expert Committee on prison deaths in its report published last year that have actually been implemented; the progress made to date with the three recommendations relating to training for staff on suicide prevention measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

The report of the Advisory Group on Prison Deaths, which was published last October, forms the basis of prison suicide prevention policy. To date 26 of the group's recommendations have been implemented, including the extension of medical orderly cover involving the recruitment of 43 additional staff, the setting up of suicide prevention groups in each institution, the review of special observation lists, improvements in commital assessment arrangements, introduction of resuscitation equipment, access to prisons by the Samaritans, and the placement of distressed or suicidal prisoners in association and/or special cells.

Two new designs of prison cell windows have been developed with a view to eliminating, in so far as possible, the use of cell windows and bars in suicide attempts. A number of these windows have been installed in the new unit in Mountjoy and in the newly refurbished wing in St. Patrick's Institution. These windows will be extended to other areas as refurbishment work is being undertaken. In-cell communications systems have also been installed in Mountjoy as recommended.

Surveys relating to speed of access to cells, improved lighting, removal of structural features that could assist a prisoner in committing suicide have been carried out. A review of temporary release arrangements has taken place and an improved method of statistical collection and analysis of incidents of inmate self-injury has been put in place.

I am seeking to have the number of clinical psychologists for the prison system increased and discussions have already taken place with the Eastern Health Board with a view to substantially improving the quality and quantity of psychiatric care for prisoners and additional moneys are being provided this year for that purpose.

Arrangements are also in train for the implementation of a further 13 of the advisory group's recommendations. The remaining recommendations, some of which were envisaged by the group itself as being long term in nature, are being taken fully into account in the context of overall development of the prison system.

In regard to training, arrangements are being made to set up a two-day training course for prison officers with the expert help of the Samaritans. This will cover the way a prison officer would relate to a distressed prisoner, the importance of active listening, being non-judgmental and non-directive, dealing with sensitive issues such as the stigma of suicide, bereavement, depression, sexuality and young people at risk, etc. This type of course, when fully developed, will be incorporated into induction training for new recruits to the prison service.

Resuscitation packs are being introduced into the prisons and in-house training on use of the pack will commence shortly.

The level of training of medical orderlies is also being examined by the Director of Prison Medical Services and any additional training needs identified will be incorporated into the medical orderly training course.