Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I share the Deputy's disappointment that the forum has not progressed in the manner in which we would all have wished. I am very familiar with the situation in Portlaoise Prison, the high security prison being in my constituency. The Deputy will be aware that the reasons for the forum not progressing are complex. We need to see how best we can move matters forward and I continue to encourage all the stakeholders to implement the report of the independent assessment team. I attach importance to the implementation of the recommendation of the paramilitary panel that a review of the separated regime be established, and this recommendation has been accepted by the Northern Ireland Executive in its action plan on tackling paramilitary activity. It is important we continue to engage. Progress in implementing the action plan will be monitored by the independent reporting commission being established by both the British and Irish Governments.

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