Greens call for clarification on Mountjoy future

The Green Party has called on the Government to clarify its intentions regarding Mountjoy Prison in Dublin.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell has announced plans to sell off the prison and replace it with a new facility on the outskirts of the capital.

However, Green Party leader Trevor Sergeant claimed a notice had been posted outside Mountjoy stating that a planning application had been lodged to construct a new building on the site.

Mr Sergeant said it appeared the Government was wasting money by committing resources to the planned new prison while also spending money on Mountjoy.

The Green Party is opposed to the planned new prison and favours the refurbishment and modernisation of Mountjoy as it is closer to the courts and other services.