Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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223. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if a dialogue has commenced in regard to matters (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51570/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Acts 1995 to 1997 give effect to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons 1983. The Deputy will also be aware that there have been a number of recent Court judgements which have implications for transferring prisoners from other States to Ireland.

In particular, in the Court of Appeal decision in the case of M.McK v The Minister for Justice and Equality [2016] IEHC 208, the judgement directed that the Minister must consider each application on its own merits under the existing legislation and give detailed reasoning for the decision reached. Thus, each application is being considered on its own merits. I cannot prejudge the outcome of any such application. All relevant applicants have been informed of this and will be further informed of any developments in their respective cases as they arise.

Officials from my Department are in regular contact with the Irish Prison Service regarding the operation of the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Acts, 1995 and 1997.