2142. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the progress that has been made regarding updating Prison Rules 2007 by 31 December 2025; when he plans to publish the updated rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59824/26]

A review of the Prison Rules 2007 has been completed to take account of the European Prison Rules 2020. The review considered draft amendments arising from the European Prison Rules 2020, proposals identified within the Irish Prison Service and amendments arising from the stakeholder consultation.

My Department and the Irish Prison Service are working closely together to progress the next phases of the work, including refining the policy proposals required to underpin the amendments to the Prison Rules. A further phase will also include engagement with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel in relation to the drafting of the necessary Statutory Instrument.

The work is progressing and every effort is being made to advance the amendments as efficiently as possible. Given the scale and complexity of the review and the legislative drafting process involved, the timeline for completion and publication is subject to the outcome and progression of this work, including engagement with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel.