Minister closes young offenders' unit in Dublin

The Minister for Justice Alan Shatter has announced the closure of St Patrick's Institution for young offenders in Dublin.

It follows the publication of the Inspector of Prisons annual report for 2012 which recommends the closure for health and safety reasons.

Concerns were raised over "disturbing" incidents of non-compliance with best practice and breaches of the fundamental rights of prisoners.

The inspector noted that the safe and secure custody of young offenders can no longer be guaranteed.

In a statement, the Justice Minister said he is satisfied the closure is now required and said prisoners will be moved to Wheatfield Prison in Dublin over the next six months.

Howver director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust Liam Herrick said Wheatfield isn't a long term solution for these young men.

"The problem at the moment is that it doesn't seem that that facility will be ready by the time that the 17-year-olds are removed from St Patricks," Mr Herrick said.

"If they are removed to Wheatfield for a matter of months that's one thing - but we need here a clear commitment by the Minister for Children that she will be in a position to receive these 17-yeaer-olds at Oberstown as soon as possible, and that the necessary facilities will be in place."