The Celtic League have expressed concern to the Irish government and the Council of Europe about serious overcrowding in the women's section of Limerick jail. Media reports and the Prison Officers Organisation have alleged that 30 female prisoners including a number of pregnant inmates were crammed into cell space designed to take 10 prisoners. (See below):

"The Secretary European Committee for the Prevention of Torture & Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) F-67075 Strasbourg Cedex

24/05/09

Dear Sir,

I write to express our concerns at media reports of serious overcrowding in Limerick jail and the specific allegation that 30 female prisoners, including two pregnant inmates, were crammed into prison accommodation for 10 people.

We are mindful of both the CPT Standards (Section VII) which records that:

"Particular care is required to ensure that women deprived of their liberty are held in a safe and decent custodial environment."

We also note the specific criticisms of the CPTs most recently published report on visits to penal institutions in Ireland which contains specific criticisms of standards at Limerick jail.

We would urge the CPT to once again raise the issue of serious overcrowding and lack of a `decent custodial environment' with the Irish authorities.

Yours sincerely.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League"

"The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform 94 St. Stephen's Green Dublin 2

24/05/09

Dear Minister,

I write to express our concerns at media reports of serious overcrowding in Limerick jail and the specific allegation that 30 female prisoners, including two pregnant inmates, were crammed into prison accommodation for 10 people.

We have registered our concerns over this issue with the Council of Europe body which oversees standards in penal institutions and a copy of the letter sent to them is enclosed

You will be aware that the CPT has set out that provision for women prisoners should include a `decent custodial environment' something which appears to have been singularly lacking at Limerick jail.

I trust the Irish government; your Department and the Prison Service are taking steps to rectify deficiencies.

Yours sincerely.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League"

CPT Standards link here:

(voir le site)

Most recent CPT Reports on Irish Jails here:

(voir le site)

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

24/05/09

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