Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 66: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if research has been carried out or a report completed into the level of mental ill-health amongst inmates in prisons here; if he has a policy dealing with same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17516/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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A study examining rates of mental illness in Irish prisoners was undertaken by a team from the Central Mental Hospital under the supervision of the Hospital's Clinical Director. The Irish Prison Service was pleased to facilitate and part-fund this study. I understand that a report on this research has been completed and that the findings of this study indicate that, as in other jurisdictions, the level of mental illness among prisoners is relatively higher than in the general population.

Decisions in regard to publication are a matter for the authors but I understand that the Irish Prison Service would, subject to the agreement of the authors, be willing to facilitate dissemination by placing the study report on the IPS website. All prisoners who are considered to require assessment or treatment for mental illness have access to prison health care services. Where appropriate specialist referral is made to visiting psychiatric or other specialist services. Any decisions regarding treatment are based on the clinical findings.