Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is a matter of some controversy but we will see how matters pan out however. As Chair of the committee, I acknowledge the crucial role played by Defence Forces personnel in Portlaoise at the prison over what I think has been a period of 50 years, oftentimes in very difficult and challenging circumstances on the island. They were always there and it was something which the people of Portlaoise acknowledge with gratitude and appreciation. If, as the Tánaiste says, it is coming to an end, so be it.