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Northern Ireland Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2012

Tuesday, 22 May 2012

Ceisteanna (47, 48)

Thomas Pringle

Ceist:

123 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will intervene in the case of an Irish citizen (details supplied) who is being held at Maghaberry Prison, County Antrim, where they are receiving inadequate medical treatment for a life threatening disorder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25085/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Clare Daly

Ceist:

131 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade noting that Brian Shivers, currently imprisoned in Maghaberry Prison, County Antrim has had necessary medication for life limiting cystic fibrosis withheld from him, and that his family and solicitors allege a lack of knowledge and comprehension of the seriousness of his illness by the prison staff, if he will liaise with Northern Ireland Justice Minister David Ford, to ensure that the prison staff have adequate training and that Brian Shivers has continual access to all necessary treatment for cystic fibrosis. [24992/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 131 together.

I am aware of the case that has been raised by the Deputy, one which officials from my Department have been closely monitoring. It is my understanding that the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, which is tasked with the delivery of prison healthcare services and the administration of medications within the Northern Ireland Prison Service, has investigated the allegations raised regarding the individual in question. As a result of this investigation it has committed to implementing additional checking measures so that Mr. Shivers has full access to the appropriate medication and to ensure that his condition is being managed effectively. The South Eastern Trust has also given an assurance that a small additional stock of medications would be kept specifically for Mr. Shivers, as a precautionary measure. I also understand that appropriate training has been provided to healthcare staff at the prison by a cystic fibrosis nurse consultant in relation to the management and awareness of cystic fibrosis, particularly in relation to Mr. Shivers.

I have directed officials from my Department to continue to monitor this case very closely.

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