Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his answer. As I stated in my earlier contribution, we are aware that the role of this body will be expanded. In my view, it is not necessary to have an office in the vicinity of St. Stephen's Green to operate effectively. This important body can operate as effectively if not more effectively from a rural town location. As the question of resources and the location of this office are being discussed, it must be pointed out that we have had an office in Nenagh for the past 12 years. The opportunity to expand that office is now there under the revamped organisation. I do not know how many staff will be employed in it but the number of staff will significantly increase. I urge the Minister to continue with the tradition of having the Inspector of Prisons located in Nenagh. It will operate as effectively if not more effectively in a rural town and with significantly less cost to the Exchequer.

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