Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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926. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and capacity of each low security accommodation unit within the Irish Prison Service; if such persons are maintained by the Prison Service or if they avail of health and social assistance supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35468/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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There are two open centre facilities within the Irish Prison Service, Shelton Abbey and Loughan House. In addition there are is a low security accommodation unit at Harristown House (Castlerea). The numbers in custody and the capacity of each is outlined below.

All prisoners housed in these areas are in the custody of the Irish Prison Service. In these locations they can access a similar level of health care services to that available in a closed prison. The Irish Prison Service is providing general health care services for the assessment, treatment and care of prisoners comparable to that available to those entitled to General Medical Services in the community and which are appropriate in a prison setting.

They also have access to therapeutic services such as Probation Service, Education & Addiction Services and receive gratuity rates of €2.20 per day up to a maximum of €18.90 per week, the same as those on enhanced regime in a closed prison.

Prisoners being considered for a transfer to an open centre or a low security unit are identified by a number of different means but primarily on the recommendation of the Prison Governor or the therapeutic services in the prisons. The prisoner, their family or their legal representative can also apply for consideration of such a concession. Recommendations are also made to me in relation to long term sentence prisoners by the Parole Board. It is important to note that it does not necessarily follow that a prisoner will receive a transfer to an Open Centre or temporary release even if the recommendation is to that effect.

Prisoners serving short sentences, i.e. under 12 months, can be moved to an open centre shortly after committal. Other longer term prisoners being prepared for the transition back into the community can be considered for moves with about 2 years left in their sentence. Exceptional prisoners who are engaging strongly with the therapeutic services can sometimes be considered for a transfer with up to 4 years left to serve in their sentence.

It is worth mentioning that Open Centres and lower-level security settings are vital tools in the re-integration and rehabilitation of prisoners. They encourage an ethos of independent living and offer a transition between custody and community/family life.