1st June 2004
59. Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he intends to take to seek a solution to the industrial dispute involving prison doctors that has led to the virtual withdrawal of medical services for prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16276/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The position is that the Irish Prison Service and the Irish Medical Organisation are engaged in separate contacts with the Labour Relations Commission about the possibility of convening further conciliation talks in an effort to resolve the matters in dispute. I have asked the director general of the Irish Prison Service to keep me briefed on the progress of these contacts. My overriding concern is to ensure that means can be found to safeguard the health and wellbeing of prisoners by ensuring the availability of full doctor services at the earliest possible time.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.