Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

What can I say, but that this is another very sad situation for a family? I note the Deputy mentioned the cells being upgraded, which they have been. The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities, as the Deputy will be aware, in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, OPW. I am informed by the Garda authorities that all cells have been risk assessed for ligatures, and that was one of the findings, as I understand it, and recommendations in respect of what should happen.

I am further advised that 91 cell refurbishment projects have been completed under the national cell refurbishment programme since 2011, including 41 projects from the period 2016 to 2021. Those renovations have been carried out for the safety of prisoners into the future.

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