Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect of INIS, as well as the challenge in terms of staffing numbers which I referred to, we also need to acknowledge recent trends which I foresee will continue, namely, a considerable growth in the number of non-EEA nationals travelling to Ireland and living in Ireland. This year we have seen year-on-year growth of the order of 10% and I would expect that will continue in respect of both visas and registrations. As well as the staffing challenge and the ongoing recruitment, I expect improvements in the throughput of cases, with ICT investment of the order of €1.5 million. I expect that will deal with some of Deputy Clare Daly's concerns but, again, as the Deputy has flagged this as something she will monitor closely next year, I assure her that so will I. It is an issue on which I would be very keen to see a greater level of engagement. I will be happy to keep the committee informed.

On the matter of the prisons Vote in respect of the step-down facility, matters are being advanced. I do not have a date upon which the facility is expected to be completed but I know work is in the course of being carried out and that it is a very important component of our prisons programme. I would be happy to give a timeframe for completion of that facility. Some work has already been undertaken.