Charles Flanagan
Ceist:76 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in bringing the new prison in Cloverhill into full usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19678/99]
Written Answers. - Prison Building Programme.
There are two reasons which resulted in the delay in bringing the new prison in Cloverhill into usage. A difficulty arose with certain areas of flooring which subsequently resulted in extensive testing being carried out. Independent professional advice had to be sought. As a result, corrective measures have been suggested. The proposed solution has been tested on certain floors in Cloverhill and I am awaiting the final test results.
Snagging took longer than anticipated to complete. All building works in a prison are a security and safety issue and it is, therefore, vital that all snagging works are completed before offenders are taken into the prison.
It should also be noted that in any major building project, in line with international prison practice, certain security works do not form part of the contract and are undertaken by the prison authority. These security works, which include lockings, can only be undertaken when all contractors and subcontractors are off site. These security works are nearing completion.
I expect the prison to be in operation in the next few weeks.