Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 204: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 136 of 29 May 2008, if he is satisfied himself that all long-term prisoners who present with indicators that they are becoming institutionalised psychologically are in receipt of the support that he has referred to; the steps that are taken to ensure that all such prisoners have these supports explained and offered to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22425/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that all prisoners are advised of the services available to them on committal to prison and have access to these services through a number of channels, including requests to prison officers on their landings. Prison staff are proactive in referring prisoners to services where they have concerns about their well-being. Longer term prisoners have their cases reviewed on an ongoing basis by multi-disciplinary teams which include prison management and the professional services. In addition, reviews are carried out in respect of prisoners who are engaged with the Parole Board, which relates to prisoners serving sentences of eight years or more.

It is recognised that appropriate regimes programmes, such as meaningful activities and contact with the outside world, are important in preventing potential institutionalisation. Considerable effort goes into ensuring that prisoners have and make use of opportunities for structured activity such as education, work and training, and programmes to address their offending behaviour and personal needs, as well as opportunities for regular exercise and contacts with family and friends.

While every effort is made to address areas of need for prisoners, the Deputy will appreciate that this also requires the active co-operation of the prisoner involved.