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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 2002

Vol. 547 No. 1

Written Answers. - Prison Accommodation.

Nora Owen

Ceist:

1016 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for Shanganagh Castle Detention Centre; the open centre which will be available for juvenile offenders if Shanganagh is closed; the plans regarding the staff if the centre is closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2618/02]

I am informed by the Director General of the Irish Prisons Service that the group which he established to examine the future role of Shanganagh Castle will submit their final report to him in the near future. As I indicated in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 158 on 22 November 2001, this group was set up to examine existing and alternative options for Shanganagh Castle in the light of the very considerable decline in young persons suitable for transfer to this centre in recent years. When this report is received, its recommendations will be considered carefully prior to making any decision regarding the future of this institution. In the event of major changes being proposed at this centre a three to four month consultation period will ensue before any final decisions are made.

It would be inappropriate for me to comment as to the future role of Shanganagh Castle in advance of the recommendations of the review group being presented and considered by the board of the Prison Service. However, I can assure the Deputy that there are no plans at this time to close Shanganagh Castle.

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