Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 223: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to allegations of ill treatment of a prisoner (details supplied); if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that the prisoner is on hunger strike since 7 November 2010; and if he will take steps to ensure that the Scottish authorities are informed of Ireland's concern about the allegations. [43935/10]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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On 9 November my Department was contacted by a family member of the person referred to by the Deputy, who alleged that the person concerned had been attacked by prison officers in Barlinnie Remand Prison in Glasgow. On my instruction, our Consulate-General in Edinburgh was in immediate and direct contact with the relevant Scottish authorities at the prison to raise concerns about his treatment and to confirm our interest in his well-being. They have also contacted the person concerned to offer consular assistance, including, if he wishes, a prison visit.

The Consulate-General has today been informed by the prison authorities that the person concerned has ended his hunger strike and is receiving appropriate medical treatment. Officials of my Department will remain in contact with the prison authorities and will ensure that consular assistance continues to be provided to both the person concerned and his family.