Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
1359. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the date on which the new prison complaints system will be implemented; if a new policy in relation to same has been developed; and if so, if she will provide the Ombudsman with an insight in order for that office to prepare itself for adopting it into its functions. [39953/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that substantial work has been completed on the necessary actions to introduce the new Prisoner Complaints System, including on staff training, the development of an integrated IT system to support case handling and a draft policy for complaints handling.
A critical path for the introduction of the new system has been provided to my office. This includes the drafting of the Statutory Instrument to support a legally sound administrative process and to amend the prison rules.
My Officials and the Irish Prison Service continue to engage with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel with a view to completing work on the Statutory Instrument which will give legal effect to the new Prisoner Complaints System.
They are also continuing to engage with the necessary stakeholders, including the Office of the Ombudsman, with regard to the introduction of the new complaints system and in preparation for its future operation.
