Prisoner transfer applications delayed by Supreme Court ruling

The Irish Prison Service has confirmed to The Irish Times that 27 applications from prisoners are now “on hold”.

In July, the Supreme Court dismissed the State’s appeal in O’Farrell v Gov of Portlaoise IESC 37.

Last month, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald told TDs: “The judgement is detailed and has implications for the continuance in its present form of the process operated by the Irish Prison Service for transferring prisoners from other States to Ireland, and vice versa.

“The practical effect of this judgement and whether it will necessitate legislative and/or administrative changes is being examined by officials of the Irish Prison Service and my Department in consultation with Attorney General.

“Pending legal clarity on these issues, applications by prisoners abroad for transfer to Ireland cannot be processed to a conclusion at present. I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that all applicants and officials in the appropriate sentencing states are being informed of this position.

“Given the complex nature of the review being undertaken, it is not possible at this stage to indicate a time frame for its conclusion.”