Parliamentary Question: Prison Committals

21st February 2002

155. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prisoners currently remanded in custody while awaiting trial; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6228/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue): On 19 February 2001 there were 547 prisoners remanded in custody pending further court appearances. I should point out that these figures do not include the significant number of sentenced prisoners who are also held in custody on foot of a court order pending their appearance in court at a future date. It should also be noted that the listing of cases for trial is a matter for the courts and I have no function in this regard. However, I understand that the courts, as a general rule, give priority to cases where the accused is in custody.