asked the Minister for Justice (a) if the non-co-operation strike which was started in Maryborough Prison shortly after the June General Election of this year by certain prisoners is still in progress; (b) to state the names and sentences of the men involved, and what treatment they have received since the commencement of the strike, and (c) to state whether he is prepared to consider the claims of these men.

During the five months between the General Election on the 9th June last and the 9th instant 32 convicts at Portlaoighise Prison have been reported for various acts of insubordination or misconduct. Of these, 20 have submitted to prison discipline after remonstrance or disciplinary punishment. The remaining 12 convicts have refused to work or to exercise or to dress properly. They are being kept in close confinement, and their misconduct involves a loss of remission of portion of their sentence and the privileges of letters, visits and newspapers. There has, so far, been no reduction in dietary in these cases. The close confinement is necessary, as these men behave in a violent and disorderly manner when they are allowed to leave their cells. It will be continued until they submit to prison discipline. Their names and sentences are:—John Hogan, death, commuted to P.S. for life; John O'Brien, 5 years P.S.; James Kavanagh, 7 years P.S.; William Hennessy, 5 years P.S.; Philip Carolan, 7 years P.S.; Frank Gibbons, 7 years P.S.; Michael J. O'Rourke, 7 years P.S.; Dominick Hudson, 10 years and 15 strokes of the "cat"; Joseph O'Keeffe, 7 years P.S.; Patrick Fagan, death, commuted to P.S. for life; John McPeak, 6 years P.S.; Matthew Hughes, 3 and 3 years P.S. (concurrently). I will deal with portion (c) of this question in my answer to Question No. 19.

Does the Minister mean by close confinement solitary confinement?

Confinement in their cells.

Can the Minister state if the prisoners are now or have been at any time held in a condemned section of Maryborough Prison?

I should imagine not. Of course if the Deputy would give me notice of these things I would be able to answer them definitely.

Has the Minister any experience of prison life himself?

No.

That is why you were selected for the post.

Would the Minister say if there is any foundation for the statement that these prisoners have been ill-treated by warders or other prison officials?

No foundation.