Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to extend the Midlands Prison at Portlaoise, County Laois, for the purposes of providing expanded accommodation for prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22864/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Prison Service, subject to the completion of the statutory planning procedures, intends to construct an additional cell block at the Midlands Prison, Portlaoise. In addition to the new block certain other necessary back-up services such as expanded catering facilities, additional education, recreation and work/training facilities will also be provided. The project, when completed, will provide accommodation for approximately 300 prisoners with full in-cell sanitation and showering facilities. It is hoped to have the project completed by late 2011/early 2012. This development will mark a significant step in the ongoing prisons modernisation programme as well as providing much needed employment in the construction sector.