Parliamentary Question: Prison Accommodation

15th October 2003

66. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals for the future of Mountjoy Prison, especially in view of the recommendation from the Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention that it should be demolished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23364/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I have noted the recommendations of the Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention regarding Mountjoy Prison. There are two possible options in regard to the replacement of the outdated prison accommodation at Mountjoy Prison. The first option is to redevelop the prison on the existing site, involving the demolition and reconstruction of existing buildings. The second option is to relocate the prison to a greenfield site. Exploration of the economics and feasibility of these options is ongoing and it is not possible to say when a decision is likely to be made as to which option should be pursued. The possibility of acquiring suitable lands in the Dublin area and surrounding counties, however, will have a major bearing in deciding on which option to pursue.