19th February 2004
216. Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the purpose of the works he intends to have carried out at Beladd Park housing estate in Portlaoise; and the options his Department is considering for its future use. [5513/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The proposed work to be carried out at Beladd Park is primarily of a security nature as these houses are located in a particularly sensitive area close to the Midlands Prison exercise yard. The houses in question are no longer regarded as habitable. No final decision has been made in respect of the future use of the estate generally.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.