25th November 2003
293. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will meet the Prison Officers' Association under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission without preconditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28201/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): My position, which is shared by the Government, is that the proposal put forward by the POA for negotiation is essentially a claim for an improvement in pay. As such claims are precluded under Sustaining Progress, I am not prepared to authorise the Prison Service to enter talks in any forum where a proposal involving such an increase is part of the discussions.
The POA proposal does not deal with the key issue that has been at the heart of discussions to date, the elimination of overtime. Both sides agreed to the introduction of an annualised hours system of attendance more than a year ago. It should be the main focus of further discussion but it was also omitted from the POA proposal. Its document envisaged leaving the prison overtime system intact or replacing it through the recruitment of up to 1,200 extra staff. Both propositions are unacceptable and unrealistic. The suggestion that the Irish Prison Service enter into discussions under the auspices of the LRC without preconditions is not a realistic proposition.
On 20 November I discussed my position on a resumption of negotiations with the POA. The meeting was useful and I hope that progress may yet be made. In the absence of an agreed way forward, before 1 January 2004, the Government decision of 11 November on alternative cost reduction measures will have to be progressively implemented.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.