The decision of the Home Affairs Minister to ban smoking at the prison is to be challenged in a Petition of Doleance.

Paul Beckett, the legal representive for one of the prisoners affected by the ban, says his client has been granted legal aid to present the petition.

This will look for a review of the ban 'taking an informed approach in the light of the European Convention of Human Rights'.

Mr Beckett says his client believes that such a review 'will be beneficial to all concerned'.

It is understood there will be an attempt to reach a settlement with the Department before any recourse to the courts. Mr Beckett says the matter will be progressed with all speed.

The ban will continue in the meantime.