Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

I indicated on the last occasion that I would consider all these matters and I have considered subsections (6) and (7) of section 6. They adequately cover this matter. They provide that my successors are expressly prohibited from issuing a certificate unless the person is of good character, is capable of performing the functions of a custody officer, has undergone such course of training relating thereto, or has such experience as would, in the opinion of the Minister, enable him or her to perform the functions of a prisoner custody office in an efficient manner, and is otherwise a fit and proper person. It is a condition of the certificate that the person in the performance of his or her duties does not contravene an agreement under section 6 and complies with the provisions of this Act and any prison rules relating to the treatment of prisoners. Prison rules relating to the treatment of prisoners will always provide for their proper and respectful treatment by all people, whether they are public servants or outsiders. I want to emphasise yet again that it is not my intention to activate these provisions unless a set of circumstances, which I do not anticipate at this stage, comes into existence.