HC Deb 23 October 2000 vol 355 c22W
Dr. Vis

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many prisoners took their own lives in prison in Northern Ireland in each of the last 10 years broken down by age, religion, institution in which they were held and the method of death. [134159]

Mr. Ingram

There were no suicides in Northern Ireland prison establishments in 1992 and 1993. Details for the other years are as shown. The method used in all cases was hanging. Religious affiliation is private confidential information.

  • 1990–1 inmate, Magilligan, aged 31 years
  • 1991–1 inmate, Belfast, aged 31 years
  • 1994–2 inmates, Belfast, aged 24 and 27 years
  • 1994–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 31 years
  • 1995–1 inmate, Belfast, aged 19 years
  • 1995–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 30 years
  • 1996–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 25 years
  • 1997–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 29 years
  • 1998–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 22 years
  • 1999–1 inmate, Maghaberry, aged 35 years.

Coroners' inquests have yet to determine the cause of three other deaths in prison. During the same period there has been one death due to hanging in the Young Offenders Centre and two other deaths there are under investigation by the Coroner.

Dr. Vis

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when action to prevent suicide in Northern Ireland prisons will be brought into line with practice in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement. [134156]

Mr. Ingram

Suicide awareness policy and practice in the Northern Ireland Prison Service is broadly in line with practice in prison establishments in England and Wales.