James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I again thank the Deputy. As I have said, if any flexibility can be allowed, I will certainly encourage the IPS to allow it. It will, of course, have to consider both the practical difficulties and the difficulties arising from Covid and the public health advice, which must be followed. This will obviously result in a very difficult situation for the families concerned, especially where young children are involved. It is difficult to be separated from one's family at any time but it will be even more difficult for those prisoners and their families at Christmas. I understand that the IPS will be facilitating temporary release for a small cohort of prisoners, as is the normal practice. Applications are currently being considered in that regard. With regard to the mental health of prisoners, the Minister is working very hard to try to improve the supports available to prisoners not only in the short term but also in the long term.

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