Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2011
24 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to reduce overcrowding in Cork prison; the timeframe he will use to achieve this reduction; and the date on which the practice of slopping out will end completely in Cork prison. [37915/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I announced recently, the Government remains very much committed to addressing the twin problems of overcrowding and poor physical conditions, particularly in Mountjoy and Cork prisons.
Since my announcement of its 2012 Capital Allocation (€24.1 million), the Irish Prison Service has commenced work on developing a five year strategy for the continued enhancement of the prison estate including the provision of in-cell sanitation. While it is not possible at this time to be specific on the funding for use in respect of Cork prison, I can assure the Deputy that the need to improve conditions there will form a significant element of the Prison Service's strategy.
