13th May 2003
165. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the strong criticism of conditions in Mountjoy Prison by the National Catholic Prison chaplains, which were described as degrading and unsanitary; the steps he intends to take to end these shocking conditions; his plans to visit the prison to see the conditions for himself; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12771/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I am aware of the chaplains' views regarding conditions at Mountjoy Prison. I am quite familiar with the conditions in Mountjoy Prison and I fully accept that they are unsatisfactory and must be addressed. I am anxious to do this in an effective and cost efficient way and I therefore recently requested that a feasibility study be undertaken on the various options for the refurbishment of the prison. The report has just been completed in recent days and I will now be consulting with the Irish Prison Service management on the best way forward.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.