Parliamentary Question: Prison Staff

30th September 2003

1223. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he intends to implement a specific policy within the Prisons Service for bullying in the workplace; when he will publish the requisite statutory provisions arising from this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20963/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The Civil Service policy document on harassment, sexual harassment and bullying entitled A Positive Working Environment is applicable to civil servants, including prison officers. While the policy outlined in this document is being applied in the case of prison service employees, it is also necessary to adopt specific arrangements for prison staff in view of the special statutory arrangements which apply to them in regard to disciplinary matters and investigations. In the circumstances, a policy specifically designed for the Prisons Service, but based on the Civil Service policy, is the subject of discussions between management and prison staff associations which are nearing conclusion.

On completion of these discussions, the Prison (Disciplinary Code for Officers) Rules 1996, will require to be amended to provide for the incorporation of the provisions of the policy. This will be done, expeditiously, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General.