19th June 2003
43. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he intends to take to ensure the security of prisoners taken to and from court; if court cases have had to be postponed due to gardaí not transferring prisoners on their days off; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16989/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána has special security plans in place on an ongoing basis to ensure the security of prisoners being taken to and from court. These plans have been operating normally and prisoners have been brought to court in the normal manner.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.