§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what is the estimated cost of the damage to the Maze Prison as a result of the recent riots; and if he will list the major facilities which 177W were damaged or destroyed with the amount of loss in each case;
(2) what is the cost or the estimated cost of restoring facilities for prisoners and detainees at the Maze Prison.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe following major facilities were damaged or destroyed
19 prison compounds. Each compound containing four huts, providing living, dining and recreational accommodation; one ablutions block and a study hut, together with all furnishings.The recently constructed inmates' kitchen including all equipment.The interior of the hospital buildings together with medical and dental equipment and supplies.The hutments used for the visitors of convicted prisoners.The prisoners' shop and contents.Two large study huts. The education offices and the library together with some 4,300 library and text books, televisions, radios and cine equipment provided for educational purposes.Four administrative offices used for voluntary and welfare services. Health studies and other medical and welfare units.Some hutments occupied by the Governor, disciplinary grades and trades officers.Three prison stores and their contents.Four internal watch-towers.The accommodation for the Army Dog Unit, both personnel and animals.The provisional estimated cost of making good all of this damage at the Maze Prison is £1.5 million.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland who were responsible for the recent disturbances and damage at the Maze Prison; and what action has been taken against those involved.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesAn inquiry is being made by the Chief Inspector of Prisons at the Home Office to examine the outbreak and the circumstances of the violent disturbances at the Maze on 15th and 16th October. When his report is available I will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will ensure that local residents in the neighbourhood of the Maze Prison are fully taken into account in any security measures which have to be adopted; and if he will ensure that they are not incarcerated in the area by security forces whenever trouble breaks out at the Maze Prison.
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§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe interests of people living in the neighbourhood of the prison are fully considered and a scheme to give them easier access to their homes when there is an emergency at the prison is at present being studied.