Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 May 2004
10 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an investigation has been held into the recent discovery of a number of rounds of ammunition in Limerick Prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12663/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that two bullets were located on a landing of Limerick Prison on 29 March, 2004. As this issue is the subject of an ongoing Garda investigation, it would be inappropriate for me to offer any further comment or speculate on the matter pending the outcome of this investigation.
There is no indication as to what the source of these bullets or their intended purpose was. I accept there has been tension in Limerick Prison arising out of incidents involving staff and their property both inside the prison and outside it. Local gardaí are reviewing the overall position in regard to these incidents and I intend to make sure prison officers are protected by the full force of the law against violations of their rights or intimidation in their work place or outside it.
Is it not true that as well as two bullets being found in March outside an inmate's cell, two nail bombs were found in February and that staff regularly report incidents of home-made improvised weapons being discovered in Limerick Prison? Perhaps it has to do with the number of feuding families incarcerated there. Is there real concern about the security and welfare of prison staff given this new serious situation which is not experienced in any other prison?
In October 2003, small gauge netting was established on A yard and D yard to prevent contraband items, including improvised weapons, from being thrown into the prison. In November 2003, netting was fitted over the new C yard as part of a building contract before the yard was put into operation. In December 2003, a new control room and closed circuit television system in visiting areas was put into operation. In March 2004, new high-level netting was fitted over the A and D yards to prevent objects being thrown over the prison walls from outside, and extra closed circuit television cameras are being fitted to give better security to the outside of the prison. A walk-through metal detector is being fitted in the visitor reception area which is due to open shortly. That is what is happening at the moment. I am intent on all necessary security being strengthened at the prison and the Garda carefully investigating why these incidents are happening.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
