Tony Gregory
Ceist:150 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans, timescale and details for the relocation of Mountjoy Prison, Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6441/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 26 February 2004
Ceisteanna (151, 152)
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:167 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the timescale for the building of a new prison and sale or disposal of the existing Mountjoy Prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6509/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 150 and 167 together.
An advertisement was placed in the national newspapers seeking a suitable replacement site for the Mountjoy complex within 25 kilometres of Dublin city centre, convenient to and accessible from the main public transport and road networks. It must also be available for immediate development, subject to the relevant planning requirements.
Last Monday was the closing date for expressions of interest. I received 23 proposals and their examination and rating is under way. I expect to make a determination on them by the end of next month.
I intend to close the Mountjoy complex as soon as a suitable replacement prison has been built. The capital generated by the sale of the complex will be used to acquire a site and finance a new prison.
Question No. 151 answered with QuestionNo. 17.