Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister to the House for this debate. Like Senator Brian Hayes, I extend to him, the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs my good wishes on their efforts during the recent talks on Northern Ireland. I have no doubt his commitment, and that of others, to the process will prove successful and lead to greater harmony and a much healthier situation on this island. He deserves the gratitude of everyone for that.

I move amendment No. 1:

To delete all words after "Seanad Eireann" and to substitute the following:

"recognises the important role of Prison Visiting Committees in ensuring continuing high standards in prisons and the protection of prisoners' rights;

notes the value to Prison Visiting Committees of the diversity of background of their membership;

acknowledges the due consideration given by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in making new appointments to Prison Visiting Committees to all relevant factors, including background, interests and experience;

recognises the commitment of the Minister to the effective and efficient discharge by Prison Visiting Committees of their functions: and

welcomes the appointment of the Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention as a further safeguard for the rights of prisoners."