1st July 2004
124. Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of the detention centre set up by the Garda Síochána in Shannon industrial estate; and the number of persons who were detained there. [19956/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The costs associated with the works necessary to convert a commercial unit in the Shannon industrial estate into a Garda station and holding cells are not yet available. I am informed by the Garda authorities that four people were taken to the converted unit on arrest.
125. Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a commissioner of the Garda Síochána (details supplied) refused a request from this Deputy to be allowed to inspect the detention centre set up by the gardaí in Shannon industrial estate at the end of the protest march on 26 June 2004. [19957/04]
Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Garda authorities that, where security and-or operational considerations are paramount, it is not Garda policy to permit access to Garda detention centres.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.