15th June 2004
483. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the replacement of Mountjoy Prison; the person by whom the search for alternative sites is being conducted and the financial basis on which; if the proposed site will be on a rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17189/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): Earlier this year, on my instruction, the Prison Service advertised in the national newspapers seeking sites on the periphery of Dublin for a new prison complex to replace Mountjoy Prison and the other custodial facilities adjacent to it. At my request, the Office of Public Works approached those who responded to the advertisement. I have been furnished with the responses obtained to this request from the landowners involved. I have instructed my Department to establish and chair an expert group to assess the suitability of the sites which have been offered and to draw up a short list for further consideration. I am not in a position to say whether the chosen site will be on a railway line.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.