Irish prisoners abroad
349. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made in the study being conducted by his Department into Irish prisoners abroad; the non-governmental organisations that have been consulted in its preparation; when he expects the study will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36213/06]
Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern): In October 2005, I appointed the former Minister of State, Chris Flood, to undertake a study into Irish prisoners serving sentences abroad. The terms of reference of the study are: To identify the numbers of Irish people in prison overseas and the countries in which they are being held; To examine the needs of Irish overseas prisoners; and Based on this identification and estimate, to make recommendations for the future provision of services to overseas prisoners, taking into account the services available in comparable countries. I understand that the study is at an advanced stage, and that a significant number of organisations have been consulted. I look forward to receiving the completed report in due course from Mr. Flood.