HC Deb 07 March 1985 vol 74 c592W
Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will give a breakdown of (a) the current complement of the Northern Ireland prison service, as of March 1985 and at the same date in 1984, in terms of stated religion and (b) the stated religion of Northern Ireland prison officer casualties caused by direct attacks by terrorists on off-duty prison officers, during the period March 1984 to 3 March 1985; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Scott

The complement of the Northern Ireland prison service was 3,087 on 3 March 1985 and 2,944 on 3 March 1984. Details of the religious affiliations of its members are not recorded, but we believe 7 per cent, to 10 per cent, are from the Catholic community.

During the year ending 3 March 1985, two members of the prison service were fatally injured when off duty as a result of terrorist action. One victim was reported to be a Protestant and the other a Catholic.