Anne Ferris (Wicklow, Labour)
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360. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prison visiting committees; the number of persons who serve on these committees; the process of appointment of prison visitors; the number of current vacancies on prison visiting committees; the timeframe within which she plans to fill any such vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24682/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I can advise the Deputy that Visiting Committee members are appointed for a period of three years by the Minister for Justice and Equality under the Prisons (Visiting Committees) Act 1925 and Prisons (Visiting Committees) Order 1925. There are fourteen Prison Visiting Committees in existence - one for each institution.

There are currently fourteen Prison Visiting Committees in existence. Each Visiting Committee comprises no more than six members, and only suitable people with appropriate qualifications and a genuine interest in prison issues are appointed. There are currently 31 vacancies.

In May, 2011 the Government approved the drafting of a General Scheme of an Inspection of Places of Detention Bill, which will include provisions to make Visiting Committees more effective, while they continue their role of visiting prisons, meeting with prisoners, and liaising on their behalf with prison authorities. A link will be established between the Visiting Committees and the Inspector of Prisons. As part of these plans, it is intended to expand the role of the Inspector of Prisons. Under the proposed new arrangements, it is intended that Visiting Committees will report regularly to the Inspector of Prisons.

Subject to competing legislative priorities, it is expected that the General Scheme will be published this year. There will be a consultation process in advance of drafting and publication of the Bill.