Parliamentary Question: Human Rights Issues

5th March 2003

295. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he accepts the code of ethics as outlined in the Irish Penal Reforms Trust report, Out of Mind, Out of Sight, regarding the solitary confinement of mentally ill prisoners; and if so, his plans to fully apply them. [6792/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The research to which the Deputy refers focused on the use of padded and strip cells in the prison system and the mental health of prisoners who had been detained in those cells. I have since met with the Irish Penal Reform Trust and have listened to their concerns on the issue. As the Deputy may be aware, I have recently given a commitment to replace, as soon as possible, all traditional padded cells with new safety observation cells which, while soft-surfaced so as to protect the prisoner from self-harm, will fully meet the needs and respect the dignity of prisoners in every way consistent with his or her safety. New guidelines for the use of the special cells will be issued to ensure that they are used under strict supervision and only as a last resort. In this context, an implementation group has been set up in the prison service to determine the most appropriate design for these cells and other related matters and to draft revised guidelines for the future use of these cells. I expect that this group will present their recommendations to me in the near future.