ANGER AS GALWAY TDS LOBBY FOR PRISONERS

Date Published: 07-Jul-2008

Victims of crime have responded angrily to revelations that TDs, including 4 from Galway, have lobbied on behalf of prisoners.Information obtained by the Irish Independent reveals that Noel Treacy, Frank Fahey, Éamon Ó Cuív and Paul Connaughton have all made representations to the Department of Justice.Galway East TD, Noel Treacy, sought temporary release for an inmate who was given a 6 year sentence, with 3 and a half suspended, in Loughin House due to ill-health of his wife in February 2006.This request was granted.In May 2006, Galway West T.D and Minister, Éamon Ó Cuív, sought the transfer of an inmate nearing the end of his 24 year sentence in Limerick Prison to a training unit.The request was declined due to an impending review by the Parole Board.In June 2006, Galway East TD, Paul Connaughton lobbied on behalf of a prisoner in Limerick prison, convicted of assault who wanted to be transferred to be closer to his wife who had surgery.His request was declined by the then Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell.Galway West TD, Frank Fahey also made a representation to the Department of Justice in November 2006.Deputy Fahey sought the early release of a man serving a 6month sentence in Castlerea for no car insurance, due to the fact his two children had severe illnesses.That matter was to be discussed at the next prisoner review meeting.