Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
829. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if there is a medical and special unit for mentally disordered challenging prisoners at Limerick Prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63819/25]
View answerThere are currently no medical or special units for people in custody in Limerick Prison who have a diagnosis of a mental disorder and who present with behaviour that challenges.
All people committed to prison are subject to a comprehensive medical assessment by the Prison Healthcare Team, which includes a mental health assessment. The information provided as part of this process is recorded on the person’s individual medical record on the Prison Healthcare Management System (PHMS). This information allows for the development of an individual healthcare plan for the prisoner while in custody. Where necessary, the person is referred to a forensic clinician or IPS psychologist or both. Medical and/or psychological treatment is provided as clinically indicated.
People in custody with a diagnosis of major mental disorder, in addition to those with other mental health needs, are supported on an ongoing basis by the Irish Prison Service Primary Healthcare team and Psychology Service. People with major mental disorder are also supported by in-reach psychiatric services, provided by the HSE’s National Forensic Mental Health Service. This involves the provision of weekly forensic mental health sessions led by consultant forensic psychiatrists, supported by non-consultant hospital doctors, community psychiatric nurses, and social workers.
At the current time, Limerick Prison is the only closed prison in the estate without in-reach support from the HSE's National Forensic Mental Health Service. Multi-agency meetings are held weekly to discuss the healthcare and operational needs for people in custody in Limerick Prison who present with higher needs, at higher risk, including those with major mental disorder. People in custody are accommodated within Limerick Prison based on decisions made at these meetings.
The Irish Prison Service have advised that the HSE are currently recruiting for the National Forensic Mental Health Service in reach team for Limerick Prison.
