Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 4

Written Answers - Prison Visiting Committees.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

252 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself that all of those appointed by him to prison visiting committees are eligible for appointment having regard to section 2(3) of the Prisons (Visiting Committees) Act, 1925; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12901/01]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue): Appointments to prison visiting committees are made by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Members may be nominated by themselves or by another individual. At the time of appointment, each member is apprised of the terms of the Prisons (Visiting Committees) Act, 1925, including the section referred to by the Deputy, and is obliged to inform me of his or her eligibility for appointment. No serving member of any visiting committee has declared ineligibility under the terms of the Act.