18/05/2015
Call For Justice Minister To Provide Safety Assurances At Cork Prison
The Justice Minister is being called to give assurances about the safety of prisoners and staff following a fatal stabbing at Cork Prison.
Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin said the attack was a "serious breach of security".
Deputy Martin said: "People are alarmed that this could happen in a secure facility where clear guidelines and protections are in place. We need to hear immediately from the Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to provide categorical assurances on safety at Cork Prison.
"Attacks like this have a huge impact not just on the victim's loved ones, but also on all other inmates, staff and their families. There is also a ripple effect right across our prison system. In the interests of public confidence in the prison system, it is vital that this incident is handled as quickly and thoroughly as possible and that action is taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
"I am extremely conscious of the pressures and stresses that are placed on prison officers. The Prison Officers Association has highlighted the increased attacks on prison officers and the mounting concerns about the risks they face in their day to day work."
(CD/JP)
Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin said the attack was a "serious breach of security".
Deputy Martin said: "People are alarmed that this could happen in a secure facility where clear guidelines and protections are in place. We need to hear immediately from the Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to provide categorical assurances on safety at Cork Prison.
"Attacks like this have a huge impact not just on the victim's loved ones, but also on all other inmates, staff and their families. There is also a ripple effect right across our prison system. In the interests of public confidence in the prison system, it is vital that this incident is handled as quickly and thoroughly as possible and that action is taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
"I am extremely conscious of the pressures and stresses that are placed on prison officers. The Prison Officers Association has highlighted the increased attacks on prison officers and the mounting concerns about the risks they face in their day to day work."
(CD/JP)
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