20th May 2003
377. Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current budget for the probation and welfare service; if this represents a reduction from previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13597/03]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The total budget provision for the probation and welfare service for 2003 is €40,159,000. This represents an increase of approximately 5% on the budget for 2002.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.