Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 287: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of beds closed in all prisons due to staffing restrictions in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the number of beds that have been closed in open prisons during these years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12843/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that no beds closed due to staffing restrictions in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010. In fact, the number of beds actually increased by 1019 over that period of time. This includes an increase of 100 beds in the open centres of Shelton Abbey and Loughan House.

Prison cells can however be temporarily closed or reassigned for a variety of reasons such as facilitating routine building works, maintenance and the expansion of prison services or accommodation.

The Deputy may wish to be aware that there are a number of projects currently underway, most notably the construction of a new accommodation block at the Midlands prison. This will provide a potential 300 spaces, a new kitchen and work training/education block, and an extension to the visits/reception areas. It is planned to have the new block fully commissioned by mid 2012.

In addition, a contract was awarded in late 2010 for the provision of 70 dormitory style spaces for female prisoners at the Dóchas Centre within the Mountjoy Campus which is due to be completed by end August 2011. The Irish Prison Service is also currently engaged in a project to upgrade and re-commission 36 cells with in-cell sanitation coming on stream by mid 2011 in the basement of the "C" Wing at Mountjoy Prison.