A PRISONER who claimed in the High Court that his food was not kosher has "yet to substantiate claims that he has converted to Judaism", according to a spokesman for the office of the Chief Rabbi in Ireland.

The Jewish Representative Council of Ireland has now inspected the kitchens at Cloverhill prison on foot of the inmate's claim and said the food provided to the inmate has been kosher since his extradition to Ireland from the UK to stand trial for alleged sexual offences.

"The Jewish Representative Council and the prison service have been working closely to ensure his kosher requirements are respected. Kosher food is being purchased in Super Valu and cooked in separate, new utensils," added the spokes­man.

"He claims to be a convert to Judaism, but has yet to substantiate those claims. Therefore the prison service is providing kosher food, whereas we are still awaiting proof of conversion to Judaism."

The prisoner, who cannot be named, has been transferred to Limerick prison since his High Court appearance.

Two weeks ago, he lodged another "habeas corpus" against Limerick prison and is again claiming his kosher requirements are being ignored. This second case has not yet come before the courts.

He also claimed in his latest action that he is not receiving his phone call rights and is questioning the legality of his transfer from Cloverhill to Limerick prison.

A prison source said: "His dietary requirements are being met in Limerick, as they were in Cloverhill. That will be proven by us in court if he continues with this action."

The prisoner complained to the High Court two weeks ago that his constitutional rights were being infringed. "I should not be punished or tortured. I have not had a proper meal in months and I am entitled to three kosher meals a day without exception," he said.

"This is religious discrimination. Muslims get halal food. I feel abused every day of the week. There is nothing in the Irish Constitution that suggests I can be subjected to such abuse."