James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this important question. The Irish Prison Service recognises the importance of promoting and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of people with disabilities committed to its care. I am strongly of the view that we need to continue to invest in our prison estate, to ensure that it is modern and fit for purpose and that it has the capacity to accommodate all of those committed to prison by the courts.

I can assure the Deputy that all work undertaken on the prison estate adheres to building regulations on accessibility, including building control amendment regulations and Part M of the building regulations.

As a result, all new prison developments include dedicated cellular accommodation for people with disability or mobility issues on ground floors, equipped to meet the needs of the user. This includes the recent work to modernise the Mountjoy complex and the replacement of outdated accommodation in Cork and Limerick. These projects represent huge improvements in prison facilities and adhere to all relevant regulations by ensuring accessibility for people regardless of their age or disability. I can also advise the Deputy that the Midlands and Wheatfield prisons and the Dóchas Centre also have accessible accommodation. In addition, the refurbishment of the training unit in Mountjoy included the instalment of two high-dependency suites should a prisoner require full nursing care.

Everyone committed to prison is interviewed by the governor and by the healthcare team to assess their individual needs. Where specific needs are not obvious, information can be volunteered with regard to a disability that may impact on their accommodation, support and rehabilitation requirements. I can assure the Deputy that while people are initially committed to specific prisons by the courts, every effort is made by the Prison Service to provide anyone who has a disability with the most appropriate accommodation suited to their individual and specific needs. I am aware that the Irish Penal Reform Trust, IPRT, made a recommendation in 2020 that the Prison Service undertake accessibility audits. While progressing this recommendation was delayed because of the pandemic, I am informed that it is now being considered by the Prison Service.

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