A PD proposal to set up a register of prisoners on temporary release was described as "irresponsible" by Mr Eric Byrne, (DL, Dublin South Central).

The proposal is contained in the PD private members' Prisons Bill, which also proposes the setting up of a separate executive authority to run the prisons.

"Rather than legislating for vigilantism, Democratic Left has consistently called for the establishment of an independent parole board which would ensure that early and temporary releases are fully monitored and that the conditions of release are tailored to the history and needs of individual prisoners," said Mr Byrne.

"In particular, it is vital to ensure that prisoners are not simply dumped on to the streets when space is needed, in conditions which may positively encouraged them to reoffend."

The PD Bill, which was debated in private members time over the past two weeks, was opposed by the Government. It was defeated by 66 votes to 59.