5th May 2004
44. Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has made a decision on the expressions of interest in the construction of a new prison in a greenfield site close to Dublin to replace Mountjoy, which he informed Dáil Éireann he expected to make by the end of March 2004; when he will announce a decision on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12659/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The examination and rating of the expressions of interest received is still being carried out on my behalf by the Office of Public Works. When the OPW report is to hand, I will be asking the Irish Prison Service to carry out a security evaluation of the shortlisted sites. I hope to be in a position to bring a recommendation on this matter before Government in advance of the Dáil recess.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.