asked the Minister for Defence whether the Garda or the Army authorities have responsibility for the supervision of prisoners in the Curragh Camp under sentence or awaiting trial.

The Army authorities.

175.

asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement on the escape of prisoners from the Curragh detention centre.

Seven prisoners who were in military custody in the Military Detention Barracks, Curragh Training Camp, escaped on the evening of Sunday, 29th October, 1972.

A court of inquiry has been convened to investigate the matter.

Could the Minister say if precautions have been taken to ensure that this will not happen again?

The Deputy can be so assured but there is no absolute guarantee at any time against an action of this kind.