11th November 2003
446. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the events surrounding the recent death of a prisoner within the Irish Prison Service. [26093/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I assume that the Deputy is referring to the tragic death of a young man in Mountjoy Prison on 27 October 2003. At the outset, I would like to express my sincere sympathy to the family of the deceased.
The director general of the Prison Service has informed me that the deceased was serving sentences totalling 19 months and that he was due for release in April 2004. At approximately 6.30 a.m. on the date in question, a prison officer discovered him in an apparent state of unconsciousness while hanging from a cell window. The officer concerned called for assistance and the deceased was immediately cut down and medical assistance administered. A Dublin City Fire Brigade ambulance brought the person to the Mater Hospital where he was pronounced dead by medical staff shortly after 7 a.m.
As with all deaths in custody, an inquest will be held into this death at a Coroner's Court. The cause of death will be determined by a jury on the basis of the information presented to the Court.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.