Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by my officials in the Irish Prison Service that it aims to achieve the highest health and safety standards across its operations and to meet the statutory requirements set out in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as well as compliance with the provisions and requirements of other relevant legislation, standards and codes of practice.

To do this the Irish Prison Service has established and maintains an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) based on the requirements of the internationally recognised safety management system – ISO 45001. The Occupational Health and Safety Management System facilitates the Irish Prison Service’s compliance with legal requirements and ensures that the policies and procedures are implemented, operated, monitored and reviewed in accordance with a structured programme with the objective of continual improvement.

Furthermore, the Irish Prison Service works collaboratively with the State Claims Agency to ensure the volume and severity of claims against the Irish Prison Service is minimised.

I am assured by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that she is committed to ensuring that adequate resources are provided to enable the Irish Prison Service meet its statutory requirements and its commitment to the safety of all those to whom it owes a duty of care, including staff, prisoners, contractors and visitors.