Written question asked by Lady Hermon (Ulster Unionist Party) on Friday, 29 May 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 June 2009. It was answered by Paul Goggins (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 June 2009 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Prison Service: Misconduct

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which offences by prison service staff constitute gross misconduct warranting termination of employment.

Answer: It is not possible to list every type of behaviour that might constitute gross misconduct. However, the Northern Ireland Prison Service Code of Conduct and Discipline gives examples of the type of conduct that will normally be regarded as gross misconduct and which will normally result in dismissal for a first offence. These are:"serious unprofessional conduct, for example trafficking or any act of violence involving a prisoner or other member of staff, or damage of property;""instances of theft, fraud or any other act involving dishonesty at work;""abuse of official position;""serious acts of negligence causing appreciable loss, damage to Prison Service property or injury;""insubordination liable to lead to serious disorder or loss of control in an establishment; and""serious or persistent acts of harassment including sexual harassment."

Secondary information