Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)

Like Deputy O'Sullivan, I am disappointed by the Minister of State's response. A sense of urgency needs to be impressed on Department officials when they are dealing with their counterparts in the Six Counties to ensure the reforms are implemented without delay.

The introduction of full body scanners might go some way to relieving the conditions in Maghaberry, particularly for prisoners who are strip searched on numerous occasions on days when they receive several visits. That should not be allowed to continue in any civilised society. It merely heightens the sense of conflict and deteriorates the situation even further.

I ask that the Tánaiste make representations regarding Brian Chivers. His life is at risk due to his illness and his life expectancy will be curtailed by the conditions in which he is being forced to live. He is being denied life-saving and life-maintaining medical treatment. That is not acceptable in this country in this day and age.

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