To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any measures that are currently in place to manage increases in the prison population; and (ii) whether any additional measures are under consideration, including the use of alternative disposals or early release mechanisms.

The Prison Service has responded to substantial and sustained population increases by using all suitable accommodation at both Magilligan and Maghaberry and maximising the use of cell sharing. The balance of the population between Maghaberry and Magilligan is also being closely monitored and managed. The objective is to deliver the best prison regimes and services possible within available resources.

As well as these operational responses the Prison Service is expediting the development of a business case for emergency permanent cellular accommodation, to address the unprecedented increase in prisoner numbers and reduce the impact of crowding issues across the adult male estate.

I am not currently considering using alternative disposals or releasing prisoners early in response to population pressures. My ongoing focus is to secure the resources the Prison Service needs to deliver safe, decent, secure and rehabilitative custody.