Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 November 2004
121 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the recent suggestion made (details supplied) that consideration be given to the introduction of needle exchange programmes in prison in order to reduce health risks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27252/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is the practice of the Irish Prison Service, in common with most prison systems worldwide, not to issue needles or injecting equipment to prisoners. There are good health, safety and security reasons for not providing needle exchange programmes in prisons and to do so would be inconsistent with the commitments set out in the Government programme. Emphasis within prisons is on health education and, where appropriate, substitution treatment. Prisoner health education not only discourages injecting behaviour but also points out the health benefits of not sharing needles and injecting equipment.
The report of the group to Review the Structure and Organisation of Prison Healthcare Services considered the matter of developing a syringe exchange programme within Irish prisons and came to the conclusion that such a step could not be recommended.
Furthermore the programme for Government states:
we will publish a plan to completely end all heroin use in Irish prisons. This will include the availability of treatment and rehabilitation for all who need them and the introduction of compulsory drug testing for prisoners where necessary.
My Department in conjunction with the Irish Prison Service, has been working hard to implement the Government's response, as stated in the programme for Government, to deal with this serious issue. Early in the new year we will implement our new strategy of mandatory drug-testing, addiction counselling and treatment, increased measures to prevent drug usage, and a genuine system of rehabilitation.
