Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 95: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the date on which he will amend the Prison Rules 2007 to introduce an independent prisoner complaints mechanism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13861/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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There are procedures within the Irish Prison Service for the investigation of complaints by prisoners. However, I have stated previously that I am not satisfied that the existing Prison Service procedures are sufficiently robust and independent of the local staff to meet best practice for the investigation of serious complaints. My intention is to bring forward amendments to the Prison Rules 2007 which will introduce an independent element to the investigation. I have asked the Inspector of Prisons to give consideration to this matter and to advise me as to the most appropriate approach to be taken in an Irish context so as to ensure compliance with best international practice. The Inspector's report is imminent and his views will be taken into account in relation to the framing of the amended Rules in this regard.