Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 November 2009
347 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a report of one prison officer having to deal with up to 58 people in an isolated building at a centre (details supplied) in County Cavan; his views on whether this is an appropriate and safe level of contact between prison officers and persons in detention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43176/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraCurrent staffing levels and configurations for each of the prisons were established in the context of the Change Agreement reached with the Prison Officers' Association in 2005. The Agreement involved substantial changes to staff deployment which could only be achieved over time. At present, staffing levels and configurations are actually quite close to what was envisaged when the Agreement was reached with the Prison Officers Association.
In 2008 a new accommodation block, which is not isolated and forms part of the prison complex, opened in Loughan House, open centre requiring additional staffing. New staff levels were established following agreement with the Prison Officers Association. The Deputy will appreciate that in a large organisation such as the Irish Prison Service, surpluses and shortfalls in staffing have to be managed on an ongoing basis. However, I am advised that the IPS is satisfied that there is an adequate level of staff in Loughan House at present. Of course, staffing levels in all prison facilities will continue to be kept under review in the context of the Department of Finance Moratorium.
