Prison Staff.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2006

Thursday, 2 February 2006

Ceisteanna (175)

John Perry

Ceist:

173 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if serious issues of bullying and harassment have been identified at Castlerea Prison; the reason no action has been taken since the consultancy firm ( details supplied) employed by his Department issued its findings on the 2 March 2005; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this independent investigation upheld 19 out of 21 complaints of bullying and harassment against a person but to date in 2006 no action has been taken against the perpetrator and they continue to work at Castlerea Prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3748/06]

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Deputy may be aware that this case was the subject of a comprehensive investigation which culminated in a number of findings. Contrary to what is suggested, action consistent with the findings in respect of the officer concerned has been taken by the Prison Service, which continues to reserve the right to take further such action as it considers necessary.