I propose to take Questions Nos. 446 and 447 together.
A considerable amount of contingency planning has been undertaken to ensure the continued running of the prison system in the event of industrial action by prison officers. As I have previously stated, the Garda Síochána and Defence Forces personnel would have a major role to play in such an eventuality. The Deputy will appreciate that for obvious operational and security reasons, I am not in a position to go into the specific details. While I hope that this action does not prove necessary, the safety of prisoners and the public must be protected.