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

I am most familiar with the regime in Portlaoise Prison in my constituency but I am also cognisant of the points made by the Deputy regarding the meetings of the prison reform group concerning the strip-searching regime and the increased access to landings, all of which have been included in the stock take report. It is generally accepted, including by the Northern Ireland Prison Service, that the conditions in Maghaberry Prison are not ideal. Any prison regime requires a balance between the obligations on prison management to provide a secure and safe environment for staff and prisoners and the requirement to respect at all times the dignity of staff and prisoners. Where that balance is not achieved, an element of frustration has been expressed. However, this by no means excuses or justifies any threats, attacks or intimidation against those who work in the prison system, be they prison officers or people working towards the health and welfare of prisoners.

I understand that there has been a request from the Deputy's group for a meeting with me. I intend fulfilling that request notwithstanding the fact that my schedule between now and Christmas is rather engaging. I am travelling to Belfast as soon as parliamentary questions are completed. I will consult the Deputy and would like to have the opportunity to meet her group before the end of the year.

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