Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 5 Nov 2003

Vol. 573 No. 4

Written Answers. - Prisoner Releases.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

281 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if persons (details supplied) who were accused of murder, refused bail and remanded to prison were released due to lack of space; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25745/03]

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

The powers vested in me as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform do not extend to the release of offenders committed by the courts on remand or for trial. Only the courts can order the release of such offenders.