16th November 2004
392. Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he proposes to appoint an Irish representative to the European committee for the prevention of torture; the way in which he proposes to address to observations of the Human Rights Commission in the third report of the ECPT to the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28701/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I hope to be in a position to nominate an Irish representative to the European committee for the prevention of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in the near future. The observations of the Human Rights Commission on the third report of the ECPT were submitted to me on 26 October 2004 and are being examined.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.