John Perry
Ceist:893 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will increase the number of visits a person (details supplied) may receive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21830/01]
Written Answers. - Prison Visits.
The person referred to is currently serving a 12 month sentence and allowing for normal remission is due for release on 28 February 2002. He was transferred from Castlerea Prison to Fort Mitchel place of detention on 19 September 2001. I have been informed by the Director General of the Irish Prisons Service that under the 1947 prison rules an offender is entitled to one visit of 30 minutes duration per week.
However, due to the location of Fort Mitchel, two visits are generally allowed per week, of 30-45 minutes duration per visit. A third visit may be granted, with the exception of Saturdays, on application by an offender to the governor. Extended time on visits may also be granted, by the governor, where necessary. The granting of additional visits is solely at the discretion of the governor and I have no function in the matter.