Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 114: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the term of office of the Inspector of Prisons is due to expire; if it is intended to reappoint a person (details supplied) to this position; when it is planned to put the position on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36250/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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Mr Justice Dermot Kinlen was appointed on a non statutory basis as Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention for a five year term with effect from his retirement from the High Court Bench in April, 2002 on reaching the statutory age limit for service in that Court. His existing term of office will, therefore, expire in April, 2007.

I have received Government approval to establish an Office of Inspector of Prisons on a statutory basis. I will be introducing an appropriate statutory provision by means of the Prisons Bill in the near future. I would hope that the Bill, will be enacted before Christmas of this year so that the statutory office can be established in 2007.