Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for accepting a number of amendments and for debating every line of the Bill. Some of the amendments put forward will improve the Bill. I also thank his officials for the expeditious manner in which they brought it forward and for their hard work.

The subject of prisons is always an area of concern. Now that Christmas is approaching I am sure the media will home in on the number of temporary releases that may be granted. I understand that because of overcrowding many temporary releases have been already granted in Cork to make way for other prisoners. Perhaps the Minister will return at a later date to let us know how many people are unlawfully at large having received temporary releases. This is a matter of concern to the general public.

The Bill will improve the lot of prisoners and the operation of the prison system. I am delighted the Minister came to an agreement with prison officers on transfers and other issues. I hope this will continue and that we will not have to privatise the system.