Seanad debates

Tuesday, 20 March 2007

Prisons Bill 2006 [Seanad Bill amended by the Dáil]: Report and Final Stages

 

3:00 pm

Photo of Joanna TuffyJoanna Tuffy (Labour)

Did the Minister have discussions with prison governors on how they might ensure the implementation of this provision? Are they of the view it is likely it to be enforced?

Senator Jim Walsh made the point that not every prisoner who would use a mobile phone would use it for malicious or criminal reasons. Many of us believe we cannot survive without a mobile phone, although that is not the case.

It is important that the Minister provides the necessary facilities and resources in prisons to ensure prisoners have opportunities to participate in education, workshops and so on. The Minister mentioned the inspector of prisons and I welcome the statement made. However, the inspector usually raises the issue of the need to provide facilities and resources for prisoners to participate in classes and training to ensure that on their release there is a better chance they will not reoffend.

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