Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I expect we will be able to move on to conclude that within the next few weeks. We received submissions in April, which have been under consideration. That consideration will be completed in June or early July and we will be then be back to the newly-appointed Inspector of Prisons, whose appointment I welcome. I recently had an opportunity to meet her. After that, we will be in a position to develop a policy position. I hope we could then proceed with the drafting of legislation, which would allow for ratification. We will make progress between now and the end of the year. As to whether that would be sufficient to allow for ratification, I will have communicate with the Deputy on the actual timelines.