Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 May 1995

Vol. 453 No. 3

Written Answers. - Prisoners in UK.

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

19 Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has made his concern known to the British Government regarding the physical and mental well-being of a prisoner (details supplied) who is serving a 25 year sentence in Full Sutton Prison in Yorkshire, England; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8853/95]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

46 Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the representations, if any, he has made to the British Government, regarding the transfer of prisoners from Northern Ireland who are at present held in England back to Northern Ireland to serve the remainder of their sentences. [8852/95]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 46 together.

I have consistently stressed to the British Government the need to give careful consideration to the range of issues relating to prisoners in the context of the new situation created by the paramilitary ceasefires. I am aware that for many prisoners in Britain, and their families, the provision for transfer to Northern Ireland is of particular importance. I have urged the British Government to ensure that the arrangement is operated flexibly, and that as many as possible of those wishing to transfer are facilitated. I understand that over the past year approximately one dozen prisoners have been moved to Northern Ireland, while in recent weeks a further group have been informed that their requests for transfers have been approved.

As regards the particular prisoner to whom the Deputy refers, as soon as I became aware of the case I instructed the Embassy in London to make urgent contact with the relevant authorities about this matter. I also asked the Embassy to arrange an early consular visit to the prisoner at Full Sutton. This took place on 15 May. I am informed that the authorities have taken steps to ensure that the prisoner is receiving necessary medical attention, including outside medical advice which had been requested on his behalf. His condition is said to have improved, although it remains a matter of concern. I am, therefore, keeping the case under very close review. Meanwhile we have urged the British authorities to give favourable consideration to his request for a transfer to a prison nearer his family as soon as his condition allows.