Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2015
246. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the development of Limerick Prison, A and B wings; the final specifications regarding the number and size of cells; the expected date for completion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17259/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Irish Prison Service that a business case for the modernisation of facilities in Limerick Prison has recently been approved in principle by the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform – meaning that the proposed development can now proceed to detailed design & tender stage. Consequently, the Irish Prison Service is now preparing the statutory planning procedure under Part IX of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001 - 2013 and is simultaneously preparing tender documentation for the works.
The development as currently envisaged includes the replacement of the out-dated A and B wings by the construction of a new block of 150 cells as well as the provision of high quality accommodation for female prisoners in a stand-alone unit with capacity for approximately 50 individual cells and 8 custodial apartments. The cells will be approximately 12 square meters each which is in excess of the Inspector of Prisons recommendations for double occupancy.
Subject to the completion of the tender process and final sanction being obtained it is expected that the project will commence in mid-2016 with a completion date of late 2018.
However, that timescale is dependent on further approval with respect to the signing of a contract and to sufficient resources being available to the Irish Prison Service.
