I have placed copies of the Northern Ireland Prison Service's Corporate and Business Plan for 2007-2010 in the Libraries of both Houses.

The Corporate and Business Plan contains Key Performance Targets I have set for the Service for 2007-08. These are:

1. No escape for top and high-risk prisoners.

2. No more than three escapes per 1000 medium and low risk prisoners.

3. The number of staff assaulted by prisoners is less than a ratio of three per 100 prisoners.

4. The number of prisoners assaulted by prisoners is less than a ratio of four per 100 prisoners.

5. An average of at least 20 hours constructive activity per week for each sentenced prisoner.

6. An average of at least 10 hours constructive activity per week for each remand prisoner.

7. To ensure 87 per cent. of prisoners serving six months or more are working to a resettlement plan and that 97 per cent. of lifers work to a life sentence plan, including preparation of the plan, within the first six months of sentence.

8. Each member of staff should receive an average of five training days.

9. Reduce the rate of absenteeism to 13 days per head by 2007-08 with an overall reduction to 11 days by 2009-10.

10. Lay the Annual Report and Audited Accounts before Parliament prior to the summer recess.

11. Ensure the average cost per prisoner place does not exceed £82,500.