Parliamentary Question: Prison Accommodation

19th February 2003

255. Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which he intends to deal with prisoners who were previously detained in padded cells; if he intends to establish a code of best practice; if he intends to retrain prison staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4979/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): As the Deputy may be aware, I can confirm that 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 Prisons 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. The issue of whether additional staff training is required will be addressed at that stage.