Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 234: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will arrange for additional protection, that is, increased and strengthened netting, for the residents beside Mountjoy Prison, Dublin, whose roofs are being used to throw drugs, knives and mobile telephones into the prison. [35326/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that a number of meetings have been held recently between Mountjoy Prison Management and local residents in relation to this issue and that these will continue as necessary. The position is that, some years ago, following concerns expressed by residents, physical barriers were erected adjacent to the rear gardens of a number of properties in the vicinity of the prison. In addition, more recently the exercise yards at the prison have been fitted with netting specially designed to prevent airborne articles being propelled into restricted areas. The authorities at the prison are in regular contact with the Garda in relation to this matter and an extensive CCTV system is in place in order to assist in the prevention and detection of individuals engaged in this illegal activity.