Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 148: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) will be granted temporary release to attend an entrance exam on 31 March 2007 at 2.15 p.m. as they want to attend college later. [12117/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The person referred to by the Deputy is serving a four year sentence with the final two months suspended for the Membership of an Unlawful Organisation. He is serving this sentence under maximum security conditions in Portlaoise Prison and is not due for release until 5 January 2008.

I have recently considered applications for temporary release from this person in relation to a degree course in music. In view of the very serious nature of his offence and the fact that he is not due for release until next year, I was not prepared to override the negative recommendation from the Irish Prison Service and accede to this request.