John Curran
Ceist:366. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners on methadone treatment in each prison nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45384/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 5 November 2019
Ceisteanna (366)
Freagraí scríofa
I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that it provides a health care service for prisoners with addictions in a structured, safe and professional basis in line with international best practice. The Irish Prison Service continues to be committed to and predominantly involved with the National Drugs Strategy in partnership with community colleagues and organisations.
I am further informed that as of 31 October 2019, the following is a breakdown of prisoners in receipt of methadone across the prison estate.
|
Prison |
31 Oct 2019 |
% of population |
|
Castlerea |
18 |
6.25% |
|
Limerick |
32 |
13.1% |
|
Cork |
41 |
13.7% |
|
Cloverhill |
119 |
31.5% |
|
Wheatfield |
111 |
22.2% |
|
Midlands |
80 |
9.4% |
|
Portlaoise |
9 |
3.9% |
|
Dochas |
69 |
46.3% |
|
Mountjoy |
190 |
27.6% |
|
Total |
669 |
16.7% |
Finally I am informed that whilst prescribing levels for methadone have fluctuated over the past 3 years, the profile of the numbers of prisoners availing of the different treatment options - i.e. detoxification, maintenance or stabilisation - has remained consistent, with 35% availing of detoxification, 64% availing of maintenance and 1% availing of the stabilisation programme.