Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy referred to it as a step-down facility. It is important in the context of those who are in prison that we move away from what is, in many respects, a cliff edge where a person who is in prison for a defined period is suddenly set free. It is important that there be a level of engagement by way of preparing people for coming out of prison and into the community. That is the type of facility we are speaking of in terms of what is called a step across into the community. I recently visited a successful engagement in Waterford which prepares prisoners for work. The project is an example of collaboration between prisoners and industry and commerce and involves a level of sponsorship. People coming out of prison are sponsored to engage in work, and many of those who have been through the project have found permanent employment. It is important we consider this approach.

The alternatives to prison in terms of community service are an important part of the criminal justice system, with particular reference to the application of restorative justice and working in the community. Funding is being provided to the Probation Service to monitor these schemes as alternatives to prison.