Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

The Spike Island and Curragh facilities would have not lasted a day if they were tested for the infringement of human rights. These were not only uneconomic to run but their conditions would have infringed upon people's human rights.

The moneys realised when the Shanganagh facility was sold have been used to buy the Thornton Hall site. It is ironic the Deputy is criticising the Government's prison plans when at every twist and turn he has opposed the building of Thornton Hall, which is ultimately the long-term solution.

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