8th February 2007
124. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is different criteria laid down in regard to families visiting rights in different prisons (details supplied); the reasons for such criteria, if such exists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4508/07]Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I wish to advise the Deputy that the frequency and length of visits can vary according to the type of institution. The 1947 Prison Rules provide the legislation for visiting arrangements. Under these rules a sentenced prisoner is entitled to one visit per week of 30 minutes duration and a remand prisoner is entitled to a visit on any weekday of 15 minutes duration. However, additional or longer visits may be granted where circumstances permit, at the Governor's discretion.
In the specific case referred to by the Deputy, the prisoner was facilitated with additional visits on numerous occasions. In fact he has received 32 visits in the 9 weeks since his committal from family members. It is the prisoner who nominates the visitors he wishes to receive while in custody. The prisoner's wife, for example, was afforded additional visits on 7 occasions in this period and has visited him on 14 occasions.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.