Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I know the Deputy did not suggest the issue about releasing serious offenders. As part of my response, though, I have to be able to say that because it is an issue that people can legitimately put to me.

Regarding people with addiction, the Deputy is correct. Many of the people who are given prison sentences have addiction issues and chaotic lives. However, part of the reason judges sometimes sentence individuals who have addiction issues and chaotic lives to short terms of imprisonment is because judges think individuals can get some mandatory services provided to them there. That is part of the reason judges do that. We can ask the Irish Prison Service about it.

I agree with the Deputy that we need to try to provide better services out in the community to ensure we can treat addiction levels. Part of the problem is that there is no compulsion in respect of trying to get people to attend those courses and receive treatment for addiction services if they are out in the community.

That is part of the reason decisions are made for those short-term sentences.

I will also bring forward issues relating to electronic monitoring, particularly in respect of remand prisoners, that might reduce the numbers.

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