Provision of safe and secure custody and dignity of care to persons in the penal system in Ireland is a priority for me as Minister and for the Irish Prison Service.
Delivery of the Limerick Prison redevelopment project is a key part of ongoing work in relation to the prison estate and is reflected in the Prison Service Strategic Plan 2019-2022.
Prior to the Budget the Irish Prison Service had a capital allocation for 2021 of €21 million.
The additional €15 million brings the total allocation in 2021 to €36 million.
I am advised by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that in respect of the redevelopment of Limerick Prison, based on the current cashflow projections and construction programme, €28 million has been allocated to the construction contract for 2021.
This allocation is subject to no unforeseen issues and/or adverse impacts arising on construction activities due to the Covid 19 pandemic.