Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 4 Nov 2003

Vol. 573 No. 3

Written Answers. - Prison Accommodation.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

617 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the possible asbestos contamination in Portlaoise Prison; when Portlaoise Prison was last surveyed for asbestos; if asbestos has been removed from Portlaoise Prison since February and March 2002; the steps which were taken to ensure the safety of staff; the steps which were taken to ensure the safety of prisoners; and the steps which were taken to ensure the safety of visitors in regard to asbestos. [25522/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Following a survey of prisons in 2001 by specialist engineers, a number of areas requiring removal of asbestos were identified. In February and March 2002, asbestos material was removed by professional contractors, advised by specialist engineers, from the areas identified in Portlaoise Prison. The removal was carried out in accordance with the health and safety regulations, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government regulations and approved codes of practice for the removal of asbestos.

The areas identified in Portlaoise Prison neither housed prisoners nor were accessible by them or their visitors. It should also be noted that the contractors employed for the removal of the material did not come into contact with prisoners. The specialists have previously confirmed that there was no danger to prison staff, prisoners, or visitors during the removal of the material. The areas from which the asbestos was removed were monitored and tested and all test results showed that the areas are now free of asbestos.

Question No. 618 answered with Question No. 565.