25th November 2003
281. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the proposed change in regard to the closure of the Curragh Prison has been costed; the cost involved; if the cost includes the provision of therapeutic and educational services as at present in the Curragh whereby 91 of the prisoners use the educational services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28107/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The running cost, including staff, overtime, prisoner services and maintenance, for the Curragh Place of Detention was €5.7 million in 2002. The Irish Prison Service has advised me that the costs associated with mothballing the institution will be approximately €625,000 in 2004.
Staff cost €3.3 million, excluding overtime, and it will continue to be incurred in the new prisons to which they are assigned. The staff transferred will reduce overtime in those prisons thereby saving overtime payments at premium rates. It is proposed that the prisoners detained in the Curragh Place of Detention will be transferred to the Midlands Prison, Portlaoise, which has excellent facilities.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.