Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention has referred to such issues in his annual reports, but we have yet to be given an opportunity to debate the conditions in our prisons. The former Governor of Mountjoy Prison, Mr. John Lonergan, said yesterday that overcrowding was causing major problems in the operation of the prison. However, the Minister for Justice and Law Reform has contradicted that view. We need to debate the issue as a matter of urgency. I ask the Cathaoirleach to ensure such a discussion takes place at last.