In line with the Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ Policy on the Monitoring of Recommendations (2021), the Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) monitors the implementation of its recommendations and corresponding Action Plans developed by the Irish Prison Service (IPS). It does this in two ways: (i) twice-yearly IPS Self-Assessments, and (ii) OIP inspection assessments.
The OIP provides the IPS with a Self-Assessment template, whereby the IPS is requested to provide a status update on recommendations accepted by the IPS and those that the IPS has deemed as having an ongoing status. The OIP inspections assess progress of implementation of all recommendations accepted by the IPS.
The Inspections Recommendation Monitoring online database allows for a tracking of status updates provided by IPS Self-Assessments and OIP inspection assessments, and is updated following receipt of IPS Self-Assessments or the publication of inspection reports.
As you are on a mobile or tablet device you may not see the full table below on your device’s screen. However, you can rotate your device or scroll across the table below to view all the content.
| Recommendation Date | Facility | Primary Keyword | Secondary Keyword | Recommendation ID | Recommendation | OIP Focus Area | IPS Response | Date of IPS Action Plan | IPS Action Plan | IPS Action Required | Recommendation Action Owner | Timeline | Q2 2024 Assessment Date | Q2 2024 Assessment Type / Status | Q2 2024 Status Update Information | Q1 / Q2 2023 Assessment Date | Q1 / Q2 2023 Assessment Type / Status | Q1 / Q2 2023 Status Update Information | Q2 2022 Assessment Date | Q2 2022 Assessment Type / Status | Q2 2022 Status Update Information | Recommendation & Status Update |
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| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Vaccination | MJCT1 | Mountjoy Men’s Prison should endeavour to embark on a robust and timely information campaign intended to provide consistent and research-informed information about the effects and side-effects of the COVID-19 vaccines (particularly those that will be administered to prisoners). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has enhanced prisoner communications since the outbreak of Covid-19. Specific information “question and answers” literature on the Covid-19 vaccine have been developed by the IPS Vaccination Committee and provided to prisoners via cell drops. The Irish Prison Service has also introduced a new Prisoner Information TV Channel, to provide information and learning support for prisoners. Bespoke Covid-19 Vaccination Videos have been developed and are shared with prisoners via the Prisoner TV Channel. The IPS, via the Red Cross Volunteers, conducted an attitudes survey of prisoners on the Covid-19 vaccine to inform vaccine roll out. | The IPS will continue to provide updated information to prisoners on Covid-19 related issues, including the vaccine. | Vaccine Committee; Communications; Prison management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service vaccination committee developed a comprehensive Questions and Answers document to provide information to prisoners on the Covid-19 vaccine. In addition, the Irish Prison Service Communications Unit developed a Q&A video with content provided by Healthcare which was published in all prison TV channels. As a result of the action, and collaboration with the Ambulance Service, the Irish Prison Service has achieved the highest prisoner vaccination rate in Europe. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | MJCT2 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. This information should be designed to assist newly committed prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to review the information for new committals on an ongoing basis. Prison management will ensure that this booklet is given to all new committals | Corporate Services; Prison Management Prison management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | MJCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, Rule 22 and European Prison Rules, Rule 22.4, the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at usual times: lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. The current prison day is structured in prisons to take account of the need to open cells on a landing basis due to Level 5 restriction. In Mountjoy the meals times are: Breakfast – 8.10am Lunch – 11.40 - 12.20 Evening meal- 3.40 – 4.20 Prisoners are released from cells to collect meals at the servery on a rotational/landing basis to prevent the mixing of larger group of people. The return to divisional unlock, following the lowering of the restriction level, will result in a return to more normal meal time schedule. | IPS will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The IPS will reintroduce divisional unlock when Level 5 restrictions are eased. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing TBC | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Food | Meal Options | MJCT4 | As recommended by the Inspectorate in the “Ameliorating the Impact of Cocooning on People in Custody – A Briefing “ Report, prisoners under COVID-19 related restricted regimes should be “informed about what (food) is on offer and asked which portions they do and do not want.” | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The provision of meals in prisons represents a significant logistical challenge. The IPS operates a 28-day menu cycle to ensure a balanced diet is provided to people in custody. Certain dietary needs are met on request including a vegetarian option or options for religious reasons, such as halal options. It is not possible to provide for personal choice or menu options for meals as this would require significant additional resources. Portion control measures are followed in the distribution of food to ensure prisoners are provided with the required food portion. Consideration is being given to the use of a tri-compartment food tray for the provision of certain meal type which have a meat potato and vegetable offering. | The Irish Prison Service will trial the use of alternative food trays for prisoners in quarantine/isolation to allow for better segregation of foods. The use of these trays will be reviewed and rolled out to other locations if successful. | Care and Rehabilitation | End May 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Multi-compartment food boxes have been sourced are available for use in prisons if required. As the serving of meals has returned to pre pandemic processes multi-compartment boxes are not required. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Religion | Access | MJCT5 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service, in consultation with the Chaplaincy Service, consider innovative strategies for maximising use of the large church facilities. This would allow for socially distanced engagement with religious services, as well as other services such as psychology and addiction counselling. | Respect & Dignity | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | Infection control measures, such as the cessation of religious services, are introduced based on guidelines published by Government. The Irish Prison Service will commence the reintroduction of religious services in line with the guidance set out by Government in the Covid-19 Resilience and Recovery – The Path Ahead . The return of religious services will be considered by Government, as part of the next stage of easing restrictions, to be announced on 4th May 2021. The prison chapels are not suitable locations for the delivery of confidential services such as Chaplaincy and Psychology. | Prison management will facilitate the streaming of religious services through the Prisoner TV Channel. | Prison management NPHET | End April 2021 4 May 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | All prison chapels have been returned to full capacity (October 2021) in line with Government and public Health guidance. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Staff Training | Human Rights | MJCT6 | The Inspectorate urges Mountjoy Men’s Prison and the Irish Prison Service to address the specific matters outlined in Section 2.4, and to consider in a more general sense the training and culture required in the prison to ensure that such behaviours are never acceptable and the risk of re-occurrence is mitigated. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The incident referred to in section 2.4 is unacceptable. It should be noted that the entry referred to represents one entry in a journal of which there are 192 daily journals in operation within the prison. The remark made was an isolated incident is not viewed as representative of the views of the workforce within the prison. All journals are reviewed by prison management and signed by Governors and Chief Officers. | Mountjoy Prison management have reminded staff of the need to ensure that all official journals are completed in a professional manner. Prison management will continue to review journals on a regular basis and will address any issues that arise. | Prison Management; Corporate Services (E,D&I Lead) | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Mountjoy Prison management have reminded staff of the need to ensure that all official journals are completed in a professional manner. Prison management will continue to review journals on a regular basis and will address any issues that arise. The introduction of digitalisation will form a central component of the next Irish Prison Service Strategic Plan. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | MJCT7 | With concern for the increase in the prison population in recent months, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The Irish Prison Service has continued to maintain the prison population at or below 3,800 to ensure safe custody. The IPS has completed an assessment of the prison estates to determine a “Covid-19 Capacity” for safe custody levels. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. It should be noted that, while temporary release is judiciously used to regulate prison numbers, not all prisoners are suitable for temporary release and the overriding concern when deciding on temporary release is public safety. | In consultation with the Department of Justice the IPS will introduce a new Covid-19 Capacity in all prisons. The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed | Operations Directorate Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | April 2021 Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Access Test Results | MJCT8 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Vaccination | MJCT9 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service continues its ongoing efforts to lobby for the prioritisation of COVID-19 vaccinations for people living and working in prisons. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The IPS continues to engage with the relevant Departments and agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccine in line with the grouping published by the Government. | The IPS will continue to engage with the appropriate agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccination. | Care and Rehabilitation; NICT | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A bespoke Prison Vaccination Programme was introduced in April 2021 resulting in over 80% of prisoners being vaccinated; the highest prisoner vaccination rate in Europe. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Health Authorities regarding the provision of vaccines including the booster vaccine. On 9 June 2022 almost 2,000 booster vaccines had been administered and over 9,000 vaccinations have been administered in total. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Prison Conditions | Repairs | MJCT10 | In line with Rule 24.1 of the European Prison Rules, and in order to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on family contact by Rule 36A, the Inspectorate recommends that every effort be made to promptly identify, prioritise and repair faulty phones. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has enhanced the availability of telephones to allow prisoners to continue to keep in contact with friends and families. Additional entitlement to phone calls have also been granted. Given the importance of family contact Mountjoy Prison trades staff ensure that broken handsets are repaired as soon as possible. Unfortunately it is the case that telephones get damaged, due to vandalism, and every effort is made to ensure that damaged phones are repaired in a timely manner. In 2020, 31 repairs were carried out to telephones. | Telecommunications equipment will be continuously assessed and replaced if faulty. | Prison management | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Mountjoy Prison management continues to monitor the phones and Trades staff ensure that any damaged or faulty phones are repaired or replaced as soon as possible. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Postal Correspondence | Timely Delivery | MJCT11 | In line with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, the Inspectorate recommends that all postal communications are collected and delivered to prisoners in a timely manner, and to ensure that all class offices are adequately stocked with paper, pens and envelopes that are proactively distributed to people in prison. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | The censors resources have been enhanced during the pandemic to prevent a backlog in post, a daily report is provided to the dedicated governor to allow monitoring of post. There are currently no delays being experienced in the distribution of post to prisoners. | The Irish Prison Service is piloting the use of eCorrespondence for prisoner communications in Mountjoy Prison (and Midlands Prison). If successful, consideration will be given to rolling out fully within Mountjoy Prison, and to other locations across the estate, which will allow for a more timely distribution of correspondence. | Prison management | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | E-correspondence has been rolled out in Mountjoy Prison, Cloverhill Prison and Midlands Prison. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | MJCT12 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4, prisoners in quarantine/ isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at least two times in a seven day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 15/04/2021 | Due to the structural age of Mountjoy Prison, cells are not equipped with showers and, due to current Infection control restrictions, showering while in quarantine is not feasible due to the high risk it poses to prisoners and staff. The cells do however facilitate in cell sanitation. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. The Irish Prison Service continues to review infection control measures on a weekly basis and any change to infection control measures is made in line with the Government decisions on the easing of restrictions, and in consultation with Public Health. | The provision of showers during the quarantine period is under active consideration in light of reducing levels of community transmission. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Bedding / Clothing | Quarantine / Isolation | MJCT13 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be provided with a daily change of clothing and a weekly change of bedding. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | It is not possible to provide laundered clothing to prisoners on a daily basis due to the capacity of the Mountjoy Prison laundry. Prisoners in quarantine are already provided with a weekly change of bedding as recommended and a daily change of underwear is provided. | Prison management | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | MJCT14 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | A critical infection control measure introduced by the Irish Prison Service has been the segregation of new committals from the general population for the purposes of quarantine. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. So far 53 prisoners, committed to custody from the community, have tested positive with Covid-19. There have been no prison based Covid-19 outbreaks, as a result of a new committal, due to the infection control measures introduced. All new prisoners are tested on day 1, with a 2nd test completed on day 7. If negative, and not symptomatic, prisoners exit quarantine after 8 days. The majority of quarantine prisoners have not required 14 days isolation. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation have their door opened on a minimum of 2 occasions per day and are visited by the class officer, the Governor, medical staff, Chaplains. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. A minimum of 1 hour continuous out of cell time is facilitated however, in general, prisoner receive more than 1 hour when numbers in isolation allow. | Not accepted | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | |||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | MJCT15 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | All prisoners in isolation/ quarantine receive a minimum 1 hours open air exercise per day. All exercise takes place in the open air as landing recreation areas are currently closed for infection control purposes. | Prison management | Completed | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | MJCT16 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been developed by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. It includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. The initiative is being piloted in Cloverhill Prison with committals in the coming weeks. | The use of tablet computers for video link with psychology to be trialed in Cloverhill and rolled out across the estate if successful. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Activities / Services | Access | MJCT17 | The inequity in out-of-cell time for non-protection prisoners should be addressed, not by reduction of out-of-cell time, but by determining ways to increase the out-of-cell time for prisoners currently receiving less time. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | Similar to the community the Covid-19 infection control measures have resulted in restricted prisoner movements. The IPS accepts that the introduction of enhanced infection control measures has impacted on the regime offered to prisoners on a daily basis and has resulted in reduced out of cell time in many areas. This is a regrettable consequence of the implementation of measures aimed at protecting the health and safety of prisoners. Efforts are already made to ensure that prisoners receive maximum out of cell time whilst restricting contact amongst prisoners. Due to Level 5 restrictions all prisoners are unlocked by landing from cells. This results in prisoners being unlocked on a rotational basis. In order to facilitate exercise some prisoners are unlocked on the reserve period which is shorter than other periods. Unlock on the reserve period is rotated amongst landings resulting in a fair distribution of out of cell time amongst groupings. The return to divisional unlock with the easing of restrictions will result in a return to more normal unlock periods. The average out pf cell time for non-restricted regime prisoners in Mountjoy is 4 hours per day. | Prison management will continue to maximise out of cell time for all prisoners Prison management will reintroduce divisional unlock when it is deemed safe to do. | Prison management | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Full prison unlock has been restored in all locations which has enhanced out of cell time for prisoners. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Education | Digital Learning | MJCT18 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make tablets available for prisoner use. These tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 15/04/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Library | Access | MJCT19 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules, Mountjoy Men’s Prison should think proactively about how library services might be improved to encourage participation. Given the increased time that people are now required to remain in their cells, there is additional need to ensure people are able to avail of library services. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | Prison management are engaging with the library services with a view to enhancing service provision. | Prison management | End Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | OIP - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | ||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | MJCT20 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact”, the Inspectorate recommends that Mountjoy Men’s Prison develop and implement measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 15/04/2021 | See reply to MJCT 17 | Prison management will continue to maximise out of cell time for all prisoners Prison management will reintroduce divisional unlock when it is deemed safe to do | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | ||
| 16/03/2021 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | MJCT21 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and broadly apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 15/04/2021 | Mountjoy Prison has had a reduced capacity to co-ordinate the ISM programme due to vacancies. A competition to fill these vacancies is completed and all 3 ISM posts in Mountjoy are expected to be filled shortly and an increase in ISM hours introduced. To further support the development of the ISM function in all prisons a new centralised recording database for ISM interviews and prisoner multi-disciplinary sentence management plans is currently at the user acceptance testing phase of implementation. This database will provide the resources necessary to improve oversight and reporting in relation to the ISM function at Mountjoy. A proof of concept project is also underway to examine the potential to introduce mobile devices for ISM Coordinators to improve their prisoner face-to-face contact times. The results of this trial are expected in Q3 2021. | ISM officers to be appointed and assigned to Mountjoy Prison | Care and Rehabilitation/ Human Resources | End Q2 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | CHCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners, in a form they can understand, upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to review the information for new committals on an ongoing basis. Prison management will ensure that this booklet is given to all new committals | Corporate Services; Prison Management Prison management | In place and will be reviewed an augmented on an ongoing basis In place and will be reviewed an augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Foreign National Prisoners | Information | CHCT2 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that Foreign National Prisoners have equal access to the provision of information. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. Prisoner Information Newsletters have been issued over the past 13 months, translated into multiple languages. In Cloverhill Prison, the Assistant Governor also gives an oral briefing to all committals to try and facilitate improved understanding of the committal process for all Prisoners. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. All Governors will provide an oral briefing to new committals. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | Effective immediately | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has developed a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet with extensive information about all aspects of prison regimes and services. The booklet is translated into a number of languages and is reviewed every two years, with the most recent update commencing in June 2022. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. This information booklet has been translated into several languages and the booklet is updated regularly. Consideration is being given to creating an induction video, based on the Living in Cell Booklet, which will be broadcast via the prisoner TV Channel. The TV channel will be managed centrally to allow for consistent management of information across the prison estate. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | CHCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, Rule 22 and European Prison Rules, Rule 22.4, the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at normal times: lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. The current prison day is structured in prisons to take account of the need to open cells on a landing basis due to Level 5 restriction. Prisoners are released from cells to collect meals at the servery on a rotational/landing basis to prevent the mixing of larger group of people. The return to divisional unlock, following the lowering of the restriction level, will result in a return to more normal meal time schedule. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service will reintroduce divisional unlock when Level 5 restrictions are eased. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Court | Remote Courts | CHCT4 | Videolink court access cannot be a long-term substitute for a prisoner’s right to attend court. In line with Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights, all measures must be taken to ensure that a prisoner can effectively participate in remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Environment | Cell Conditions | CHCT5 | The Irish Prison Service must ensure that all sanitary facilities in multi-occupancy cells are fully partitioned and that multiple-occupancy cells meet, at least, the minimum CPT cell size requirements. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | All cells in Cloverhill Prison (except Special Observations Cells) have in cell sanitation. Modesty screens are in place for privacy. Since 2017 the Irish prison system has seen an increase in the number of prisoners held on remand. The average number held on remand in 2017 was 584. This has increased to 677 in 2018 and in 2019 saw a further 4.5% increase to 707. As the State’s only remand facility at Cloverhill Prison has a bed capacity of 431, this requires remand prisoners to be spread across the prison estate. A further recent feature of remand prisoners is the increasing seriousness of the criminal charges they face. Many of these remand prisoners are required to be detained for much longer periods than was previously the case for remand prisoners, with increasing numbers of them requiring imprisonment at higher levels of security. Reducing the occupancy level of triple occupancy cells in Cloverhill Prison would result in the bed capacity of that prison being reduced by up to 100 and would require more prisoners to be dispersed across the prison estate leading to additional pressure being put on prisoner accommodation in those locations and an increase in the number of remand prisoners being accommodated with the sentenced cohort. | The ability to reduce the capacity of existing cells in Cloverhill is dependent on the construction of an additional remand facility or additional accommodation. This will be considered in the next Irish Prison Service Capital Strategy. | Finances & Estates Directorate; Department of Justice | End 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The trial of the new privacy curtain is being implemented in Wheatfied Prison in Q2 2024 and if sucessful will be extended to all appropriate cells across the estate. The Irish Prison Service is continuing to complete the appropriate actions required under the Public Spending code for the development of a new wing in Cloverhill Prison. Approval in Principle for the project was provided by the Department of Justice in December 2023. Consultants will be appointed in 2024 for the completion of the full design and specification of the new facility and for the provision of project supervision and the completion of planning requirements under Part 9 of the Planning and Development Regulations. It is expected that following completion of the design phase the project will go to tender in 2025, with a contracted awarded in late 2025/early 2026 with the construction being completed over a two year period. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Building Service Division is exploring the use of a bespoke cell shower/toilet privacy curtain which would provide privacy without compromising the safety of cell occupants. The concept is currently being considered including the completion of appropriate risk assessments. A Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) has been completed on a proposed new wing development at Cloverhill Prison. The SAR has been reviewed by the Department of Justice who have sanctioned the IPS to move to next phase – preliminary Business Case. This will involve a more detailed analysis and overall scope deliverables and budget pertaining to the preferred options. It is planned that the Preliminary Business Case will be submitted to DOJ by end Q2 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | To be considered in 2022 as part of the development of the new Irish Prison Service Strategic Plan 2023 - 2025 and subsequent Estimates process. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Bedding / Clothing | CHCT6 | In line with Rule 22 of the Irish Prisons Rules 2007- 2020 requires that, prisoners be issued with bedding that is adequate for warmth and health. In accordance with this Rule, the Inspectorate recommends a full inspection of all mattress and pillows be conducted. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Cloverhill Prison has commenced a quality audit of all mattresses and pillows. | Prison management | May 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Tracking of this recommendation will not continue as maintenance of adequate bedding will continue as a matter of course. | 6-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Cloverhill Prison Management are satisfied that existing measures are in place to ensure prisoners consistently have adequate bedding and/or the ability to request reissue of same. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An audit of pillows and mattresses was completed in 2021. 200 new pillows have been received and are being issued for use. The replacement of mattresses is being considered. Any prisoner who wishes to have a replacement mattresses may request same from their ACO. | |||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | CHCT7 | With concern for the increase in the prison population in recent months, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers would reduce the number of people cell-sharing, minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enable prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Part Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Cloverhill is a remand prison, resulting in limited control over prisoner numbers. In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The Irish Prison Service has continued to maintain the prison population at or below 3,800 to ensure safe custody. The IPS has completed an assessment of the prison estate to determine a “Covid-19 Capacity” to ensure appropriate infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | In consultation with the Department of Justice the IPS will introduce a new Covid-19 Capacity in all prisons. The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | May 2021 Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Access Test Results | CHCT8 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Vaccination | CHCT9 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service continues its ongoing efforts to advocate for the prioritisation of COVID-19 vaccinations for people living and working in prisons. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The IPS continues to engage with the relevant Departments and agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccine in line with the grouping published by the Government. | The IPS will continue to engage with the appropriate agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccination. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A bespoke Prison Vaccination Programme was introduced in April 2021 resulting in over 80% of prisoners being vaccinated; the highest prisoner vaccination rate in Europe. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Health Authorities regarding the provision of vaccines including the booster vaccine. To date over 2000 booster vaccines had been administered. In excess of 9,000 vaccinations have been administered across the system. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | CHCT10 | The Inspectorate reiterates the requirement for appropriate care and treatment for persons who are detained in Cloverhill Prison who require mental health care and treatment in an appropriate therapeutic environment. The Inspectorate welcomes the recent establishment of the High Level Taskforce to Consider the Mental Health and Addiction Challenges of Persons Interacting with the Criminal Justice System. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The IPS Headquarters engages on a continuing basis with the prison and the Central Mental Hospital /HSE so that prisoners receive appropriate care and admission as required. The IPS is represented on the recently established Interdepartmental Task Force on Mental Health in Prisons and will support its work. The IPS Psychology Service provide mental health care via a stepped / layered model of care in Cloverhill Prison. It is intended to run a meta-cognitive training (MCT) group on D2 to support the needs of this group of people with significant mental health needs. | IPS continues to engage with the prison and Central Mental Hospital and participate actively on the Task Force | Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | D2 Training: Staff support and training modules re-commenced in November 2022. Currently the Psychology, Healthcare (due to commence in the coming weeks) and Psychiatry teams provide inputs. The topics covered by Psychology include: ‘Impact of the Prison Environment; Managing Stress and Burnout’ (two inputs) ‘Working with Neuro-diversity on D2’ ‘Trauma-informed care in Forensic Settings’ The Psychology Service are currently in the process of getting this programme recognised by the IPSC. A meta-cognitive training (MCT) group was piloted in 2022 to support the needs of people with significant (severe and enduring) mental health difficulties. At present, those who require the intervention can complete the programme on a 1:1 basis. This adaptation was due to both staffing levels and insufficient numbers requiring the intervention to run it in group format. There are plans for a weekly rolling group to commence in Autumn 2024. Primary Care mental health support: Following the success of Mental Health Week, workshops will continue to be run by the Psychology Service on a range of mental health topics and the mental health week will continue to be held annually. Assistant Psychologists also provide 1:1 Primary Care interventions where appropriate (up to 12 sessions). | 6-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | D2 Training: Staff support and training modules re-commenced in November 2022. Currently the Psychology and Psychiatry teams provide inputs and the GP input is to commence shortly. Meta Cognitive Training: Those currently engaged are completing the programme on a 1:1 basis as there are not sufficient numbers to run in group format. Groups will recommence when numbers are sufficient. Primary Care mental health support: Following the success of Mental Health Week, workshops will continue by the Psychology Service on a range of mental health topics. Assistant Psychologists also provide 1:1 Primary Care interventions (up to 12 sessions). The IPS is supportive of the work of the Task Force and has established a Group to review the organisation of mental health services within the IPS estate. The National Forensic Mental Health Service (NFHMS) is included on this group. In addition, the IPS is represented on the recently established HSE group tasked with the implementation of the Department of Health Policy “Sharing the Vision” . This work will include a prevalence study on the levels of mental health and addiction across the prisoner population. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It is intended to pilot a meta-cognitive training (MCT) group to support the needs of people with significant (severe and enduring) mental health difficulties and this will commence in April 2022 if Covid-19 restrictions allow (primarily in relation to the mixing of people from different landings). The Psychology Service in Cloverhill completed a needs analysis and coordinated a training programme consisting of 10 modules specifically to support the needs of staff working on D2 landing. These modules commenced in May 2019. The topics cover a range of areas including supporting the physical well-being of people in custody, self-harm awareness, knowledge of physical disorders and mental health disorders, verbal de-escalation and managing burnout. Most modules were co-facilitated by representatives from Psychology, Psychiatry, Healthcare and tutors from the IPSC. Unfortunately, modules were stood-down due to the pandemic. However, panels have recently been updated on D2 and modules will begin again as soon as possible. Based on feedback, additional topics are being included. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Family Contact | Video Calls | CHCT11 | The Inspectorate welcomes measures such as the introduction of video calls and in-cell phone provision to facilitate family contact. These measures should be maintained as forms of family contact beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, but should not replace in-person family visits. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | In-person family visits have been temporarily suspended as a result of Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. The Service will re-introduce physical family visits in line with the guidelines issued by the Government and the National Public Emergency Team. The IPS intends to retain the use of video visits post Covid-19 as an additional form of family visit. There are no plans for phone and video calls to replace in-person family visits. | To be reviewed as Covid-19 restrictions ease. | Operations; NICT | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The facilitation of physical family visits has been subject to ongoing review throughout the pandemic and in person visits have been permitted when safe to do so. All visits were returned to pre-pandemic durations in November 2021. The number of visitors has returned to pre pandemic levels (3 adults and no limit on children). Consideration is being given to the restoration of weekly physical visits in Q3 2022 - subject to the availability of resources. The Irish Prison Service has continued to enhance access to in-cell telephony to enhance the ability of prisoners to communicate with family members. The provision of video visiting facilities has been retained as an additional option for visitation post pandemic and prisoners are able to avail of both video and in person visits as required. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Postal Correspondence | Timely Delivery | CHCT12 | In line with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, the Inspectorate recommends that all postal communications are collected and delivered to prisoners in a timely manner by prioritising the censor’s office in the daily Regime Management Plan. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | The Governor has resolved the postal delays in Cloverhill Prison and has verified this resolution with the Inspector. | The Irish Prison Service is piloting the use of eCorrespondence for prisoner communications in Mountjoy Prison and Midlands Prison. If successful, consideration will be given to rolling out fully to other locations across the estate, which will allow for a more timely distribution of correspondence. | ICT/ Prison Management | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The pilot ecorrespondence system is operating in Cloverhill Prison and is operating effectively. Consideration is being given to extending the system to other locations. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | CHCT13 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4, prisoners in quarantine/ isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at least two times in a seven day period | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Cloverhill Prison’s isolation/quarantine cells are not equipped with showers and, due to current Infection control restrictions, showering while in quarantine is not feasible due to the high risk it poses to prisoners and staff. The cells do however facilitate in cell sanitation. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. The Irish Prison Service continues to review infection control measures on a weekly basis and any change to infection control measures is made in line with the Government decisions on the easing of restrictions, and in consultation with Public Health. | The provision of showers during the quarantine period is under active consideration in light of reducing levels of community transmission. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Bedding / Clothing | Quarantine / Isolation | CHCT14 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be provided with a daily change of clothing and a weekly change of bedding. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 04/05/2021 | It is not possible to provide laundered clothing to prisoners on a daily basis due to the capacity of the Cloverhill Prison laundry. Additional funding will be made available to Cloverhill Prison to facilitate provision of additional clothing to Prisoners. Prisoners in quarantine are already provided with a weekly change of bedding as recommended. | Prison management and Care and Rehabilitation are actively monitoring this recommendation. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The budget for the provision of clothing in Cloverhill Prison has been increased by 20%. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | CHCT15 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 04/05/2021 | A critical infection control measure introduced by the Irish Prison Service has been the segregation of new committals from the general population for the purposes of quarantine. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. So far 54 prisoners, committed to custody from the community, have tested positive with Covid-19. There have been no prison based Covid-19 outbreaks, as a result of a new committal, due to the infection control measures introduced. All new prisoners are tested on day 1, with a 2nd test completed on day 7. If negative, and not symptomatic, prisoners exit quarantine after 8 days. The majority of quarantine prisoners have not required 14 days isolation. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Prisoners in quarantine in Cloverhill Prisons generally have at least one cellmate. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation have their door opened on a minimum of 2 occasions per day and are visited by the class officer, the Governor, medical staff, Chaplains. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. | Not accepted | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | |||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | CHCT16 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Due to the volume of committals into Cloverhill Prison and the current quarantine/isolation requirements, only 30 minutes of daily open air is achievable. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. | To be reviewed as Covid-19 restrictions ease. | Prison management | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | CHCT17 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been developed by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of iPads to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. The use of iPads will be piloted by the Cloverhill Psychology Service in the coming 7-10 days. | The use of tablet computers for video link with psychology to be trialled in Cloverhill and rolled out across the estate if successful. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Education | Digital Learning | CHCT18 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 04/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Library | Access | CHCT19 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules, Cloverhill Prison should consider how library services might be improved to encourage participation. Given the increased time that people are now required to remain in their cells, there is additional need to ensure people are able to avail of library services. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Prison management are engaging with the library services with a view to enhancing service provision. | Prison management | End Q2 2021 | 1-Nov-23 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | ||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | CHCT20 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact”, the Inspectorate recommends that Cloverhill Prison develops and implements measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Similar to the community the Covid-19 infection control measures have resulted in restricted prisoner movements. The IPS accepts that the introduction of enhanced infection control measures has impacted on the regime offered to prisoners on a daily basis and has resulted in reduced out of cell time in many areas. This is a regrettable consequence of the implementation of measures aimed at protecting the health and safety of prisoners. Efforts are already made to ensure that prisoners receive maximum out of cell time whilst restricting contact amongst prisoners. Due to Level 5 restrictions all prisoners are unlocked by landing from cells. This results in prisoners being unlocked on a rotational basis. In order to facilitate exercise some prisoners are unlocked on the reserve period which is shorter than other periods. Unlock on the reserve period is rotated amongst landings resulting in a fair distribution of out of cell time amongst groupings. The return to divisional unlock with the easing of restrictions will result in a return to more normal unlock periods. The current average out of cell time for non-restricted regime prisoners in Cloverhill is 4 hours per day. | Prison management will continue to maximise out of cell time for all prisoners Prison management will reintroduce divisional unlock when it is deemed safe to do. | Prison management | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | |
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Environment | Green Space | CHCT21 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and the Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 13/04/2021 | Cloverhill Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | CHCT22 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and broadly apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 04/05/2021 | To further support the development of the ISM function in all prisons a new centralised recording database for ISM interviews and prisoner multi-disciplinary sentence management plans is currently at the user acceptance testing phase of implementation. This database will provide the resources necessary to improve oversight and reporting in relation to the ISM function at Cloverhill. A Resettlement Service is provided to sentenced prisoners at Cloverhill Prison by IASIO who assist with applications for housing, welfare and medical cards in preparation for release. | Database in testing phase. | Care and Rehabilitation/ Human Resources | End Q2 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | WFCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. All Governors will provide an oral briefing to new committals. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Information | Access | WFCT2 | In order to ensure effective information provision to all prisoners, in line with Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, the Inspectorate urges Wheatfield Prison to promptly introduce information dissemination by way of TV channel. The information provided on the channel should be in a language and form that can be understood by prisoners, and may require complementary modes of information dissemination. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | TV channel went live on May 10th 2021. ACO is currently designing an information leaflet on how to use the channel. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | WFCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, (Rule 22.1) and European Prison Rules, (Rule 22.4), the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at times reflected in the community: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. The prison day was structured in prisons to take account of the need to open cells on a landing basis due to Level 5 restriction. Prisoners are released from cells to collect meals at the servery on a rotational/landing basis to prevent the mixing of larger group of people. The majority of prisons have reverted from landing unlock to divisional unlock following the reduction in restriction level. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service is currently reintroducing divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing End June 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Environment | Privacy | WFCT4 | In line with the CPT standards on living conditions, and with respect to the European Convention on Human Rights Article 8, all cells in Wheatfield Prison should meet minimum CPT requirements with access to a fully partitioned toilet facility. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Privacy screens 900mm high are due to be installed in cells. The fit out was delayed as a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Screens of this height provide adequate privacy while still facilitating checks to ensure safety of Prisoners. | Privacy screen to be installed in cells. | Building Services Division / Prison management | Under review/TBC | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | he trial of the new privacy curtain is being implemented in Wheatfied Prison in Q4 2023. The trial will be reviewed in Q1 2024 and if sucessful will be extended to all appropriate cells across the estate. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Building Service Division is exploring the use of a bespoke cell shower/toilet privacy curtain which would provide privacy without compromising the safety of cell occupants. The concept is currently being considered including the completion of appropriate risk assessments. A Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) has been completed on a proposed new wing development at Cloverhill Prison. The SAR has been reviewed by the Department of Justice who have sanctioned the IPS to move to next phase – preliminary business care. This will involve a more detailed analysis and overall scope deliverables and budget pertaining to the preferred options. It is planned that the Preliminary Business Case will be submitted to Department of Justice by end Q2 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Prison management are working on the design of a partition that meets with appropriate security standards. Engagement is ongoing with the contractor and it is intended to install the partitions once the design process is complete. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | WFCT5 | With concern for the increase in the prison population in recent months, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers would reduce the number of people cell-sharing, minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enable prisoners to practice social distancing. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The Irish Prison Service has continued to maintain the prison population at or below 3,800 to ensure safe custody. The IPS has completed an assessment of the prison estate to determine a “Covid-19 Capacity” to ensure appropriate infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Prison Service Escort Corps | WFCT6 | The Irish Prison Service should review and address the impact of the current prisoner escort model on the operation of prisons, specifically as this model undermines prisoners’ access to rehabilitation services in the prison. | Safety & Security | Part Accepted | 28/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service will be conducting a review of prisoner escorts to assess the impact of the use of video link technology, and increased court escort activity. | A copy of the review will be made available to the Inspector of Prisons when completed. | Human Resources | End Q3 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Escort requirements increase in line with prisoner population. The 2023 estimates process provided funding for resources specific to the escort function. These posts have been formally recognised with recruitment ongoing to fill the posts. | 10-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Update continues as advised September 2022. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to carry out a review of the impact of increased use of Courts video link. A copy of the review will be provided when the review has been completed. The Irish Prison Service is seeking the provision of additional resources to support the completion of additional tasks with regard to the escorting of prisoners. | ||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | PPE | WFCT7 | All prisoners should be able to request and be provided with masks to protect themselves from COVID-19. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service ERPT have determined that surgical masks will be made available to all prisoners as an enhanced infection control measure. | ERPT will issue guidance that surgical masks be made available to all prisoners, and that all prisoners be encouraged to use same. | ERPT / Prison management | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Masks were made available to prisoners in line with ERPT guidance. The mandatory wearing of masks was ceased in February 2022 in line with the removal for wearing facemasks in the community. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Personal Hygiene | Water | WFCT8 | In line with guidance issued by the WHO (2021) Preparedness, prevention and control of COVID-19 in prisons and other places of detention, all prisoners should have availability of sufficient quantities of safe water and handwashing supplies, both of which should be ensured throughout the outbreak response and in its aftermath. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | All prisons have sufficient running water and handwashing supplies in line with the WHO Guidance (2021). There are safety mechanisms in place in certain areas to prevent the risk of deliberate cell flooding. | Already in place | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Inter-Prisoner Treatment | Violence | WFCT9 | In line with Rule 1 of the Nelson Mandela Rules and Rule 52.2 of the European Prison Rules, the safety of prisoners should be ensured for at all times and adequate procedures must be in place to reduce to a minimum the risk of violence. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Every effort is made by prison management to ensure the safety of all those living and working in prisons. Any allegation of assault or violence is thoroughly investigated and action taken including disciplinary action or referral to An Garda Síochana if appropriate. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Prison management continually addresses and aims to prevent violence in prisons. Formal procedures are in place for the reporting of any assault to An Garda Síochana and disciplinary action is taken against any prisoners who breaches prison rules. | ||||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Test Results | WFCT10 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 28/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Vaccination | WFCT11 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service continues its ongoing efforts to lobby for the prioritisation of COVID-19 vaccinations for people living and working in prisons. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | The IPS continues to engage with the relevant Departments and agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccine in line with the grouping published by the Government. | The IPS will continue to engage with the appropriate agencies with regard to access to the Covid-19 vaccination. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Postal Correspondence | Timely Delivery | WFCT12 | In line with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Rule 58 (1) (a) of the UN Mandela Rules, the Inspectorate recommends that all postal communications are collected and delivered to prisoners in a timely manner by prioritising the censor’s office and transport to collect the post in the daily Regime Management Plan. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Postal backlog has been cleared. | Prison management will continue to monitor this process. In addition, the Irish Prison Service is piloting the use of e-Correspondence for prisoner communications in Mountjoy Prison and Midlands Prison. If successful, consideration will be given to rolling out fully to other locations across the estate, which will allow for a more timely distribution of correspondence. | Prison management ICT | Ongoing End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | E-correspondence has been rolled out in Mountjoy Prison, Cloverhill Prison and Midlands Prison. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | WFCT13 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4 and the CPT Decency Threshold for Prisons, prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at a minimum, two times in a seven day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison’s isolation/quarantine cells are not equipped with showers and, due to current Infection control restrictions, showering while in quarantine is not feasible due to the high risk it poses to prisoners and staff. The cells do however facilitate in cell sanitation. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. The Irish Prison Service continues to review infection control measures on a weekly basis and any change to infection control measures is made in line with the Government decisions on the easing of restrictions, and in consultation with Public Health. | The provision of showers during the quarantine period is under active consideration in light of reducing levels of community transmission. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Bedding / Clothing | Quarantine / Isolation | WFCT14 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be provided with a weekly change of bedding. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine are already provided with a weekly change of bedding as recommended. | Prison management are actively monitoring this recommendation. | Prison Management | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Prisoners are provided with a weekly change of bedding. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | WFCT15 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/ isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 28/05/2021 | A critical infection control measure introduced by the Irish Prison Service has been the segregation of new committals from the general population for the purposes of quarantine. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. So far 63 prisoners, committed to custody from the community, have tested positive with Covid-19. There have been no prison based Covid-19 outbreaks, as a result of a new committal, due to the infection control measures introduced. All new prisoners are tested on day 1, with a 2nd test completed on day 7. If negative, and not symptomatic, prisoners exit quarantine after 8 days. The majority of quarantine prisoners have not required 14 days isolation. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation have their door opened on a minimum of 2 occasions per day and are visited by the class officer, the Governor, medical staff, Chaplains. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | Not accepted | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. | |||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | WFCT16 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have access to at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | WFCT17 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners coping with the restrictive measures imposed as a result of COVID-19. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been developed by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of iPads to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. The use of iPads is being piloted in Mountjoy and by the Cloverhill Psychology Service. | The use of tablet computers for video link with psychology is being trialled in Mountjoy and Cloverhill. It will be rolled out across the estate if successful. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Education | Digital Learning | WFCT18 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 28/05/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board. CDETB. Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. DHFERIS has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Library | Access | WFCT19 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules, Wheatfield Prison should proactively consider the re-opening of library services in the main prison. Given the increased time that people are now required to remain in their cells, there is additional need to ensure people are able to avail of library services. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Library services were suspended in line with events in the community. Prison management are engaging with the library services with a view to enhancing service provision. | Prison management | End Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | ||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Environment | Green Space | WFCT20 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. Security considerations will be taken into account when considering any enhancement to the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and the Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | WFCT21 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact”, the Inspectorate recommends that Wheatfield Prison develop and implement measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Similar to the community the Covid-19 infection control measures have resulted in restricted prisoner movements. The IPS accepts that the introduction of enhanced infection control measures has impacted on the regime offered to prisoners on a daily basis and has resulted in reduced out of cell time in many areas. This is a regrettable consequence of the implementation of measures aimed at protecting the health and safety of prisoners. Efforts are already made to ensure that prisoners receive maximum out of cell time whilst restricting contact amongst prisoners. In order to facilitate exercise some prisoners are unlocked on the reserve period which is shorter than other periods. Unlock on the reserve period is rotated amongst landings resulting in a fair distribution of out of cell time amongst groupings. The return to divisional unlock in all prisons with the easing of restrictions will result in a return to more normal unlock periods. The current average out of cell time for non-restricted regime prisoners in Wheatfield is 6-7 hours per day. | Prison management will continue to maximise out of cell time for all prisoners The Irish Prison Service is reintroducing divisional unlock in Wheatfield Prison as part of the unwinding of restrictive measures | Prison management | Not accepted End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | |
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Parole Board | WFCT22 | In line with ICCPR Article 10(3) and the need to ensure prisoners have continued access to rehabilitative services during the pandemic, the Inspectorate recommends that the IPS consider strategies to enable timely fulfilment of Parole Board recommended courses and initiatives. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 28/05/2021 | This recommendation is under review pending the commencement of the statutory Parole Board. | Plan for management of Life Sentenced Prisoners to be agreed with IPS and Department of Justice. | Operations | Under review | NA | NA | NA | 6-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS Psychology Service is going to tender to establish a panel of appropriately qualified Psychologists to support completion of a backlog of Year 1 life sentenced prisoner risk assessments which will outline key areas of risk and need for sentence planning purposes. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Restrictions on participation in structured activities including external work and training courses have now been lifted. The Irish Prison Service is engaging with the Department of Justice and the Parole Board on the management of Life sentence Prisoners. The IPS will inform the Office of the Inspector of Prisons of the outcome of these discussions when completed. | ||
| 10/05/2021 | Wheatfield Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | WFCT23 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and broadly apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan. At the prison level, this could include securing the ISM post(s) at a higher point on the Regime Management Plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 28/05/2021 | Wheatfield ISM officers will be going on a back to back roster to further strengthen their ISM process. To further support the development of the ISM function in all prisons a new centralised recording database for ISM interviews and prisoner multi-disciplinary sentence management plans is currently at the user acceptance testing phase of implementation. This database will provide the resources necessary to improve oversight and reporting in relation to the ISM function at Wheatfield. A Resettlement Service is provided to sentenced prisoners at Wheatfield Prison by IASIO who assist with applications for housing, welfare and medical cards in preparation for release. | Database in testing phase. | Care and Rehabilitation/ Human Resources | End Q2 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | LMCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. Information is also included on prisoner information channel and is updated as required. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. All Governors provide an oral briefing to new committals. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management Team | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis. Effective immediately | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Information | Access | LMCT2 | In order to ensure effective information provision to all prisoners, in line with Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, the Inspectorate urges Limerick Prison to promptly introduce information dissemination by way of TV channel. The information provided on the channel should be in a language and form that can be understood by prisoners, and may require complementary modes of information dissemination. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Limerick Prison currently has a prisoner information TV Channel. All pertinent information is included and is updated regularly. Including information on Work Training, Education, Prisoner information, Covid-19, Medical facilities and Services available etc. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Limerick prison continues to operate a prisoner information TV Channel. All pertinent information can be uploaded and and information is updated regularly. The TV channel was used to provide information to prisoners during Mental Health Week. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 9-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Prison in-cell TV channel is in place in prisons including Limerick and provides for information dissemination in cell. Content can be uploaded and played in any language for different programmes as required. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Limerick Prison was the first prison to pilot the prisoner TV channel as a means of communicating with prisoners. All literature/prison materials has been translated in as many languages as possible. The Irish Prison Service intents to test systems which allow a Foreign National / non-English speaking prisoner to can speak in their native language and have their spoken words translated. The technical requirements for same are being considered. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | LMCT3 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Living with COVID-19. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans related to COVID-19 restrictions including, family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Prisoners updated regularly on the Framework for Living with COVID-19. The prisoners Red Cross created an information booklet, arrange regular information leaflet cell drops and Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | LMCT4 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, (Rule 22.1) and European Prison Rules, (Rule 22.4), the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at times reflected in the community: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. The current prison day is structured in prisons to take account of the need to open cells on a landing basis due to Level 5 restriction. Prisoners are released from cells to collect meals at the servery on a rotational/landing basis to prevent the mixing of larger group of people. Limerick Prison is operating at divisional unlock, however when restrictions are further lifted the meal time schedule will be even less impacted by any restrictions (i.e. number of prisoners at the servery at once). | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. The Irish Prison Service is currently reintroducing divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing End June 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Court | Remote Courts | LMCT5 | Video link court access cannot be a long-term substitute for a prisoner’s right to attend court. In line with Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights, all measures must be taken to ensure that a prisoner can effectively participate in remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Environment | Cell Conditions | LMCT6 | In line with the CPT standards on living space (2015), the Inspectorate recommends that the prison address the poor condition of cells on D wing. Cells should be examined and appropriate action taken to ensure basic living conditions are provided | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Every effort is made by prison management to ensure a good standard of accommodation is provided for all prisoners. However, the standard of these conditions can be difficult to maintain where Prisoners engage in destructive behaviour. When damage is caused prison management ensure that repairs are carried out in a timely manner. In 2020, €219,304.00 was spent on painting, new lights, new beds and windows on D Wing. Repainting of the wing has commenced. | Prison management Team will continue to review and have essential maintenance works carry out as required to maintain the improved standards. | Prison Management Team / Trades Officers | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Management continue to review and monitor the physical condition of all accommodation and remedial works are carried out when required. Significant expenditure was incurred in 2020 regarding same. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Personal Hygiene | Menstruation Products | LMCT7 | In line with the UN Bangkok Rules (Rule 5) and the Irish Prison Service’s commitment to providing free period products, the Inspectorate recommends that both sanitary towels and tampons be provided without charge to all prisoners who may require them, and that this be done in a way that reduces stigma and embarrassment. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | This is already in place. These products are readily available through reception on request or through any member of staff as required. | Continue current practice. Improve prisoner awareness of sanitary products available | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A female prison officer has been assigned to the task of ensuring prisoners have access to period products. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | LMCT8 | The Mental Health Team composition should be augmented with provision of additional community psychiatric nursing as a minimum. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Community Psychiatric Nurses are part of the In-Reach Mental Health Services provided to the IPS by the National Forensic Mental Health Service. Decisions regarding staffing levels are made by the NFMHS in consultation with IPS. In addition, the IPS is currently finalising a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment across the prison estate. This is considering the health needs of prisoners, including mental health and how best to meet these needs by providing responsive mental health and primary care services. The IPS is also supporting the Mental Health Task Force on Mental Health which is inter alia, reviewing the mental health requirements across prisons. This Task Force involves the IPS and the Departments of Justice and Health as well as the HSE who provide the national forensic mental health service to prisons. | In progress | Care & Rehabilitation | End Q2 for Health Needs Assessment Q4 Mental Health Task Force | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | IPS tendered for supplier to assist with implementation of HNA Recommendations. That process has concluded and the implementation phase of the HNA project will commence in 2024. In the interim the HSE are currently in the process of sourcing a suitable specialist to provide a consultant forensic psychiatric services at Limetrick prison. This process is ongoing. In the interim the HSE have arranged for a consultant psychiatrist with significant forensic mental health experience to provide a regular service at the prison. This service is being provided with appropriate nursing support. | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | It is anticipated that the Health Needs Assessment will be published shortly. Subsequently it is proposed to procure expert consultancy advice re the implementation of the recommendations of the Health Needs Assessment - which include the mental health needs of the prison population. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Health Needs Assessment has been completed and the recommendations are being considered. The Irish Prison Service continues to participate in the Interdepartmental Taskforce on Mental Health and the group is to report later this year. - IPS HQ Care & Rehabilitation | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Access Test Results | LMCT9 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Family Contact | Video Calls | LMCT10 | Prisoners should have access to family video link calls post COVID-19. Video calls should remain as an addition following the return of in person visits. Supports should be available for families of prisoners to maintain contact digitally. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is currently developing a new Framework for the Unwinding of Prison Restrictions which is informed by the recent Government Plan for reopening our society, set out in Resilience and Recovery: The Path Ahead. The new Framework for Unwinding Prison Restrictions, will include information on the return of physical visits. The introduction of video visits has proven very successful and the Irish Prison Service intends to continue the use of video visits as a means of family contact going forward. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Postal Correspondence | Timely Delivery | LMCT11 | In line with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Rule 58 (1) (a) of the UN Mandela Rules, the Inspectorate recommends that all postal communications are collected and delivered to prisoners in a timely manner by prioritising the censor’s office and transport to collect the post in the daily Regime Management Plan. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Prison Management team is aware of the importance of postal communications (particularly given the restrictions during a pandemic) and will endeavour to facilitate staff deployment to the censors office as much as is reasonably practicable considering any security concerns that may arise on any given day. | Prison management will continue to monitor this process. In addition, the Irish Prison Service is piloting the use of e-Correspondence for prisoner communications in Mountjoy Prison and Midlands Prison. If successful, consideration will be given to rolling out fully to other locations across the estate, which will allow for a more timely distribution of correspondence. | Prison management ICT | Ongoing End Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Limerick Prison has and will continue to endeavour to facilitate staff deployment to the censors office as much as is reasonably practicable considering any security concerns that may arise on any given day. Our latest Regime Management Plan reflects this goal. Prison management will continue to monitor this process | 14-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The pilot referenced in the September 2022 update is ongoing. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | E-correspondence has been rolled out in Mountjoy Prison, Cloverhill Prison and Midlands Prison. To be considered in Limerick Prison following review of existing pilots in Mountjoy and Midlands Prisons and subject to available resources. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Family Contact | Telephone | LMCT12 | In line with Rule 26 of the UN Bangkok Rules, the Inspectorate recommends the prison develop a way to afford greater privacy to women when contacting their children and family members on the phone. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | There is currently a family room available for physical visits when they resume, and Video Phones are available in private areas that are readily available to facilitate these calls. The new womens’ accommodation which is currently under construction will contain telephones in each cell. | Summer 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The new Female accommodation is now in operation and each prisoner has a telephone in her cell, affording privacy to each when contacting their children and family members. | 14-Feb-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Limerick’s new female wing and enhanced facilities for females are due to open in July 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Construction of new female accommodation in Limerick has continued with completing expected by the end of 2022. This will provide greatly enhanced accommodation for female prisoners and will include in cell telephone in all cells. | |||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | LMCT13 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4 and the CPT “Minimum Decency Threshold,” prisoners in quarantine/ isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at least two times in a seven day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Limerick Prison’s isolation/quarantine cells are not equipped with showers and, due to current Infection control restrictions, showering while in quarantine is not feasible due to the high risk it poses to prisoners and staff. The cells do however facilitate in cell sanitation. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. The Irish Prison Service continues to review infection control measures on a weekly basis and any change to infection control measures is made in line with the Government decisions on the easing of restrictions, and in consultation with Public Health. | The provision of showers during the quarantine period is under active consideration in light of reducing levels of community transmission. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Bedding / Clothing | Quarantine / Isolation | LMCT14 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be provided with a daily change of clothing. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 11/06/2021 | It is not possible to provide laundered clothing to prisoners on a daily basis due to the capacity of Limerick Prison laundry. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | LMCT15 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 11/06/2021 | A critical infection control measure introduced by the Irish Prison Service has been the segregation of new committals from the general population for the purposes of quarantine. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. So far 10 prisoners have been committed to custody in Limerick prison from the community who have tested positive with Covid-19. There have been no prison based Covid-19 outbreak to date as a direct result of the stringent infection control measures implemented. All new prisoners are tested on day 1, with a 2nd test completed on day 7. If negative, and not symptomatic, prisoners exit quarantine after 8 days. The majority of quarantine prisoners have not required 14 days isolation. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation have their door opened on a minimum of 2 occasions per day and are visited by the class officer, the Governor, medical staff, Chaplains. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. | ||||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | LMCT16 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | LMCT17 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been developed by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. The use of tablets is being piloted in Mountjoy and by the Cloverhill Psychology Service. | The use of tablet computers for video link with psychology is being trialled in Mountjoy and Cloverhill. It will be rolled out across the estate if successful. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Transgender Prisoners | Policy | LMCT18 | In line with the Yogyakarta Principle 9 on The Right to Treatment with Humanity while in Detention, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to develop, in partnership with relevant civil society organisations, transgender people in prison and other relevant stakeholders, a national policy regarding the safe custody of transgender women and men. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is currently developing a national policy for the safe custody of transgender women and men. Consultation is currently ongoing with relevant stakeholders as well as other jurisdictions. | Corporate Services | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service policy for the safe custody of transgender women and men is still in development. Engagement with relevant stakeholders continues. | 9-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service has engaged with relevant stakeholders and hopes to finalise a transgender policy in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service has commenced engagement with appropriate stakeholders with regard to the development of a Transgender prisoner policy. This includes engagement with both statutory and non-statutory bodies. The Irish Prison Service is also conducting international research into the issue to help inform proposed policy development. It is anticipated that a draft discussion paper will be completed by the end of Q2 2022. The Irish Prison Service is also conducting a review of the Prison Rule with regard to the searching of prisoners to provide clarity on the searching procedures for transgender prisoners. It is proposed to bring forward an amendment to this rule (in 2022) in advance of the full review of Prison Rules which are not expected until 2023 at the earliest. | ||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Personal Hygiene | Shaving Products | LMCT19 | In line with the Mandela Rules, Rule 18, the prison should take steps to ensure prisoners have daily access to shaving equipment that is hygienic and safe and supports prisoners in the maintenance of personal hygiene and appearance. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | 190 electric razors have been purchased. These are issued to prisoners by the class officers daily. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Education | Digital Learning | LMCT20 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 11/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Library | Access | LMCT21 | Given the increased time that people are now required to remain in their cells, there is additional need to ensure people are able to avail of library services. The Irish Prison Service and Prison Library should update and rotate books throughout the prison to keep prisoners engaged with reading/library services. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Library services were suspended in line with events in the community. Library services have now resumed, Prison management are engaging with library services with a view to enhance service provision. | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Prison Management Team | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | ||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Environment | Exercise - Women | LMCT22 | In line with Rule 34.2 of the European Prison Rules and CPT Standards on women in prison, the Inspectorate recommends that the prison determine a strategy for women to avail of fresh air and exercise under decent conditions, where they can associate out of hearing and sight of men in prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | Female prisoners currently exercise in the A yard due to the ongoing essential building work on the new wing. This exercise yard is not overlooked by any cell accommodation and male prisoners are not in the area at these times. All female prisoners are offered exercise on an even rotational basis with other cohorts of prisoners. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 21/05/2021 | Limerick Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | LMCT23 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and broadly apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 11/06/2021 | ISM is now on a 7 day roster at Limerick Prison. This further enhances the ISM function and availability of same to prisoners. To further support the development of the ISM function in all prisons a new centralised recording database for ISM interviews and prisoner multi-disciplinary sentence management plans is currently at the user acceptance testing phase of implementation. This database will provide the resources necessary to improve oversight and reporting in relation to the ISM function at Limerick. A Resettlement Service is provided to sentenced prisoners at Limerick Prison by IASIO who assist with applications for housing, welfare and medical cards in preparation for release. | Database in testing phase. | Care and Rehabilitation/ Human Resources | End Q2 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Information | Access | PLCT1 | In order to ensure effective information provision to all prisoners, in line with Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, the Inspectorate urges Portlaoise Prison to promptly introduce information dissemination by way of TV channel. The information provided on the channel should be in a language and form that can be understood by prisoners, and may require complementary modes of information dissemination. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison currently has a prisoner information TV Channel. All pertinent information is included and is updated regularly. Including information on Work Training, Education, Prisoner information, Covid-19, Medical facilities and Services available etc. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Portlaoise prison continues to operate a prisoner information TV Channel. All pertinent information can be uploaded and and information is updated regularly. The TV channel was used to provide information to prisoners during Mental Health Week. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 9-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Prison in-cell TV channel is in place in prisons and provides for information dissemination in cell. Content can be uploaded and played in any language for different programmes as required. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The continued operation of the In-cell TV Channels will form a central component of the blended learning strategy. The Irish Prison Service has engaged with the relevant stakeholders with regard to the development of an in-cell learning strategy. The development of same has been delayed due to the continued management of covid-19 outbreaks across the prison system in 2021 and the departure of the senior official driving the development of the plan. Further engagements with the relevant stakeholders currently ongoing | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | PLCT2 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Living with COVID-19. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans related to COVID-19 restrictions including, family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is currently developing a new Framework for the Unwinding of Prison Restrictions which is informed by the recent Government Plan for reopening our society, set out in Resilience and Recovery: The Path Ahead. Information on preventing the spread of Covid-19 and updates on changes to regimes, services, visits, vaccinations etc. are provided in the fortnightly Prisoner Information Newsletters, translated into 8 languages and distributed with the assistance of Red Cross Liaison Officers and volunteers. | Will continue as required. | Care & Rehabilitation Prison management Red Cross | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | PLCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, Rule 22 and European Prison Rules, Rule 22.4, the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at normal times: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. The prison day was structured in prisons to take account of the need to open cells on a landing basis due to Level 5 restrictions. Portlaoise Prison has now returned to divisional unlock, resulting in increased out of cell time for Prisoners. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service is currently reintroducing divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing End June 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Environment | General Cleanliness | PLCT4 | The Inspectorate urges the prison to take immediate action to identify and address the cause of the smell of sewage under the kitchen area. | Respect & Dignity | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison have confirmed that there is currently no odour in the area, the grease trap from the main kitchen that discharges into sewer line was cleaned out recently. As a precautionary measure the Estates Directorate will ensure the sewer lines and chambers around the kitchen basement area are jet washed and inspected in the coming week. | Prison Management / Estates | Week ending 2nd July 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Remedial action taken. | ||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Court | Remote Courts | PLCT5 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with prisoners on the impact of remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Personal Hygiene | Slopping Out | PLCT6 | In line with international human rights obligations, and as committed to in the Irish Prison Service Strategic Plan, the Irish Prison Service should actively progress plans to eliminate the practice of slopping out in E block of Portlaoise Prison. | Respect & Dignity | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | Exploratory engineering studies have been undertaken at E block, Portlaoise Prison to assess the options for the provision of in-cell sanitation having regard to the condition of the building, cell size and other factors as well as operational requirements. A scope of works and a design proposal for the construction of a sample cell at E block has been prepared and it is anticipated that work on the sample cell will commence this Summer. The sample cell design is broader in scope than the provision of in-cell sanitation alone and will include other features with a view to modernise the cellular accommodation at E block. The outcome of this process will influence future action and design issues regarding the installation of in- cell sanitation at E block. | Prison Management / Estates | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A feasibility study on the installation of in-cell sanitation to the E block has set out that it is not possible to provide a cost effective solution and therefore this action is not being progressed at this time. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | There are only 8 prisoners, accommodated in the Portlaoise Prison E Block who do not have access to toilet facilities in their cell and must "slop out" on a daily basis. The Irish Prison Service has been completing engineering surveys on the E Block to explore the options of providing in-cell sanitation along with other work to upgrade the cellular accommodation having regard to the age and fabric of the building. Works on the construction of a sample cell at E Block have taken place and the outcome of these works has been examined to determine the feasibility of installing in-cell sanitation to the Block. Given the historical nature and condition of the building, the low and reducing number of prisoners, and the likely scale of costs involved it is now considered not feasible to provide in-cell sanitation throughout the block. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | A project to examine the feasibility of installing in-cell sanitation into the Portlaoise Prison E Block is under way. This involves the installation of in-cell sanitation in a small number of cells in the division. Completion of this test works will inform any decision to install in-cell sanitation in the remainder of the E-Block as recommended. | ||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | PLCT7 | With concern for the overall increase in the prison population across the prison estate in recent months, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. It should be noted that, while temporary release is judiciously used to regulate prison numbers, not all prisoners are suitable for temporary release and the overriding concern when deciding on temporary release is public safety. The IPS has completed an assessment of the prison estate to determine a “Covid-19 Capacity” to ensure appropriate infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | PLCT8 | In line with Article 12 of the ICESCR, the CoE principles of preventive health care, and cognisant of principle 4 of the Revised European Prison Rules the Mental Health Team composition should be augmented with provision of community psychiatric nursing as a minimum. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Community Psychiatric Nurses are part of the In-Reach Mental Health Services provided to the IPS by the National Forensic Mental Health Service. Decisions regarding staffing levels are made by the NFMHS in consultation with IPS. In addition, the IPS is currently finalising a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment across the prison estate. This HNA will consider the health needs of prisoners, including mental health and how best to meet these needs by providing responsive mental health and primary care services. The IPS is also supporting the Mental Health Task Force on Mental Health which is inter alia, reviewing the mental health requirements across prisons. This Task Force involves the IPS and the Departments of Justice and Health as well as the HSE who provide the National Forensic Mental Health Service to prisons. | HNA to be finalised Ongoing consultation with NFMHS, HSE | C&R, HSE, NFMHS | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Health Needs Assessment has been completed and the recommendations are being considered by the Irish Prison Service. The Irish Prison Service continues to participate in the Interdepartmental Taskforce on Mental Health. The Report of the Group is expected to be published in Q3 2022. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Access Test Results | PLCT9 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Vaccination | PLCT10 | In line with the Principle of Equivalence, prisoners should be provided with equal access to COVID-19 vaccinations as those in the general community. The Inspectorate recommends the Irish Prison Service continue its ongoing efforts to ensure people in prison receive the COVID-19 vaccination in accordance with the Principle of Equivalence and HSE eligibility guidelines. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | A vaccination programme for those in custody commenced on the 9th June and is being rolled out on a prison by prison basis. It is envisioned that the programme will be completed by mid-August. The first dose of the vaccine was administered to prisoners in Portlaoise on the 11th June 2021. | Care & Rehabilitation | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A bespoke Prison Vaccination Programme was introduced in April 2021 resulting in over 80% of prisoners being vaccinated; the highest prisoner vaccination rate in Europe. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Health Authorities regarding the provision of vaccines including the booster vaccine. To date over 2000 booster vaccines had been administered. In excess of 9,000 vaccinations have been administered across the system. | ||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Family Contact | Video Calls | PLCT11 | Prisoners should have access to family video link calls post COVID-19. Video calls should remain as an addition following the return of in person visits. In line with Article 8 of the ECHR and Article 9 (3) of the UN CRC, these measures should be maintained as forms of strengthening the right to family contact beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The IPS intends to retain the use of video visits post Covid-19 as an additional form of family visit. | Complete | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | PLCT12 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4 and the CPT “Minimum Decency Threshold,” prisoners in quarantine/ isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at least two times in a seven day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Due to the very small number of prisoners in isolation/quarantine in Portlaoise, a shower station with donning/doffing area has been set up to facilitate showers for Prisoners. | The provision of showers during the quarantine period is under active consideration in light of reducing levels of community transmission. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | PLCT13 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | A critical infection control measure introduced by the Irish Prison Service has been the segregation of new committals from the general population for the purposes of quarantine. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. So far 63 prisoners, committed to custody from the community, have tested positive with Covid-19. There have been no prison based Covid-19 outbreaks, as a result of a new committal, due to the infection control measures introduced. All new prisoners are tested on day 1, with a 2nd test completed on day 7. If negative, and not symptomatic, prisoners exit quarantine after 8 days. The majority of quarantine prisoners have not required 14 days isolation. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation have their door opened on a minimum of 2 occasions per day and are visited by the class officer, the Governor, medical staff, Chaplains. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. | ||||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | PLCT14 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||||
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | PLCT15 | Measures must be taken with urgency to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been developed by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of iPads to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. The use of iPads is being piloted in Mountjoy and by the Cloverhill Psychology Service. | The use of tablet computers for video link with psychology is being trialled in Mountjoy and Cloverhill. It will be rolled out across the estate if successful | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Education | Digital Learning | PLCT16 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. A memorandum of agreement will be prepared to share this with other ETBs. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | PLCT17 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact,” the Inspectorate recommends that Portlaoise Prison develops and implements measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Similar to the community the Covid-19 infection control measures have resulted in restricted prisoner movements. The IPS accepts that the introduction of enhanced infection control measures has impacted on the regime offered to prisoners on a daily basis and has resulted in reduced out of cell time in many areas. This is a regrettable consequence of the implementation of measures aimed at protecting the health and safety of prisoners. Efforts are already made to ensure that prisoners receive maximum out of cell time whilst restricting contact amongst prisoners. In order to facilitate exercise some prisoners are unlocked on the reserve period which is shorter than other periods. Unlock on the reserve period is rotated amongst landings resulting in a fair distribution of out of cell time amongst groupings. The return to divisional unlock in all prisons with the easing of restrictions has resulted in a return to more normal unlock periods. The current average out of cell time for non-restricted regime prisoners in Portaoise Prison is 6-10 hours per day. | Prison management will continue to maximise out of cell time for all prisoners The Irish Prison Service is reintroducing divisional unlock in Portlaoise Prison as part of the unwinding of restrictive measures | Prison management | Not accepted End June 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | |
| 02/06/2021 | Portlaoise Prison | Environment | Green Space | PLCT18 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. Security considerations will be taken into account when considering any enhancement to the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and the Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | SACT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. Information is also included on prisoner information channel and is updated as required. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. Governor provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | SACT2 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Living with COVID-19. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans including, family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is currently developing a new Framework for the Unwinding of Prison Restrictions which is informed by the recent Government Plan for reopening our society, set out in Resilience and Recovery: The Path Ahead. The prisoners Red Cross created an information booklet, arrange regular information leaflet cell drops and the Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Food | Meal Scheduling | SACT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules (Rule 22), and European Prison Rules, (Rule 22.4), the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling of meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at normal times: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. However, the roll out of this initiative has been prevented due to industrial relations issues. Saturday and Sunday afternoon meal schedule have been amended at Shelton Abbey in line with weekday schedule. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service has reintroduced divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison management | Ongoing End June 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Staffing | Chaplaincy | SACT4 | In line with the UN Mandela Rules (Rule 65 (1)), consideration should be given to a full-time Chaplain, or the additional provision of Chaplaincy hours in Shelton Abbey. | Respect & Dignity | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service intends to undertake an independent review of Chaplaincy Services in 2021 and this will include a review of the resources required in each establishment. | Independent Review to be undertaken | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service sought and received additional resources for the Psychology Service through the 2022 Estimates process including the appointment of a psychologist to both Open Centres (part-time). A full time staff grade Psychologist took up post in March 2024. Funding for an Occupational Therapy Manager was achieved, however recruitment was not successful in filling this post in 2022. This post will be re-advertised in Q3 2024. Whilst priority is currently been given to providing OT support to people with severe and enduring mental health needs in Cloverhill Prison and Mountjoy Prison, the OT Manager will be responsible for developing the OT service across the estate, including in the Open Centres. | 8-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A part time 0.5 Chaplain is in place in Shelton Abbey on a permanent basis. The preferred bidder for the Irish Prison Service chaplaincy review has been selected and contracts documents are expected to be signed during Q2 2023 with a view to commence review in Q3 2023. The reviewer will engage in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, including the Inspector of Prisons as part of this review. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The review of Chaplaincy Service was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Irish Prison Service has commenced the procurement process to procure a suitable service provider to carry out the review. Tender documents are currently being finalised re same. It is hoped to publish the tender on etenders.ie before the end of the year. The Irish Prison Service will engage in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, including the Office of the Inspector of Prisons, as part of the review. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Court | Remote Courts | SACT5 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with prisoners on the impact of remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Prisoner Accounts | Gratuity | SACT6 | The Irish Prison Service should expand the types of activities that are deemed as “work” in its policy on Prisoner Gratuities and Prisoner Cash. The policy should be reviewed and amended on the basis of the impact COVID-19 restrictions have had on access to paid external employment in the community for prisoners from open prisons. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | A review of the categorisation of eligible work in the Prisoner Gratuities and Prisoner Cash Policy was completed in 2019 with input from the Governors of the Open Centres. All prisoners undertaking recognised work at Shelton Abbey are being paid the appropriate work gratuity. The only prisoners not being paid the work gratuity are those who are attending education/training or those who currently have no work due to COVID. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | SACT7 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice and the Probation Service to maximise all opportunities (e.g., increase the numbers on Community Return) available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. It should be noted that, while temporary release is judiciously used to regulate prison numbers, not all prisoners are suitable for temporary release and the overriding concern when deciding on temporary release is public safety. The IPS has completed an assessment of the prison estate to determine a “Covid-19 Capacity” to ensure appropriate infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | COVID-19 | Access Test Results | SACT8 | In line with practice in the general community, and with the Principle of Equivalence, the IPS should ensure that people in prison are provided with written information about their test results. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has worked closely with the HSE/Public Health on the management of Covid-19 outbreaks in prisons. The completion of mass testing of all prisoners and staff is a huge logistical operation and this is completed twice per outbreak. People in the community are provided with test results via text message, which is not available to people in custody. The implementation of this recommendation would require the manual provision of individualised letters which is not currently feasible from IT and resource perspective. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | SACT9 | In line with Article 12 of the ICESCR, the CoE principles of preventive health care, and cognisant of Principle 4 of the Revised European Prison Rules, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service must provide a referral pathway to psychology services for prisoners in Shelton Abbey, and consider access to an occupational therapist to support the development of life skills for prisoners as they prepare to reintegrate back into society. | Health & Wellbeing | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | The IPS acknowledges the importance of psychological support (mental health) for people in Open Centres. An IPS Psychologist attends Shelton Abbey one day per month, primarily providing consultation to the Multi-disciplinary team. The implementation of this recommendation would require additional resources. Any resource required for this would have to be applied for through the estimates process and agreed by the Department. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service sought and received additional resources for the Psychology Service through the 2022 Estimates process including the appointment of a psychologist to both Open Centres (part-time). A full time staff grade Psychologist took up post in March 2024. Funding for an Occupational Therapy Manager was achieved, however recruitment was not successful in filling this post in 2022. This post will be re-advertised in Q3 2024. Whilst priority is currently been given to providing OT support to people with severe and enduring mental health needs in Cloverhill Prison and Mountjoy Prison, the OT Manager will be responsible for developing the OT service across the estate, including in the Open Centres. | 6-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Psychologist will transfer to Shelton Abbey three days per week from approximately Q4 2023. If the IPS Psychology Service can source a part-time locum psychologist between now and Q4 2023, this will support Shelton Abbey in the short term. Funding for an Occupational Therapy Manager was achieved, however recruitment was not successful in filling this post in 2022. This post will be re-advertised in Q3 2023. Whilst priority is currently been given to providing OT support to people with severe and enduring mental health needs in Cloverhill Prison and Mountjoy Prison, the OT Manager will be responsible for developing the OT service across the estate, including in the Open Centres. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service sought and received additional resources for the Psychology Service through the 2022 Estimates process including the appointment of a psychologist to both Open Centres (part-time). A competition for the recruitment of psychologist for appointment to the open centres is currently ongoing (closing date 9 August 2022) and it is expected to make appointments in Q3/Q4 2022 subject to suitable candidates being identified at interview. | |||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Family Contact | Video Calls | SACT10 | The Inspectorate welcomes compensatory measures such as the introduction and regular frequency of video calls, and mobile phone provision to facilitate family contact. In line with Article 8 of the ECHR and Article 9 (3) of the UN CRC, these measures should be maintained as forms of strengthening the right to family contact beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The introduction of video visits has proven very successful and the Irish Prison Service intends to continue the use of video visits as a means of family contact going forward. Mobile phones have been available to prisoners at Shelton Abbey for approximately 12 years. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Family Contact | Visits | SACT11 | In line with the easing of restrictions in the community, the principles of proportionality and necessity, Article 8 of the ECHR and Article 9(3) of the UNCRC, the Irish Prison Service should consider the re-introduction of family visits (of a longer duration) given the outdoor space available in Shelton Abbey. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 25/06/2021 | The IPS are currently finialising their plan to commence the reintroduction of physical visits to all prisons with effect from 4th August 2021. The IPS will reintroduce physical visits to prisons on a phased basis taking subject to to public health advices and having due cognisance to appropriate clinical advices in the IPS context. The easing of visits will be dependent on the capacity available at each prison to ensure appropriate social distancing measures and to ensure the continued delivery of regimes and out of cell time to prisoners. The decision to lengthen visits in Open Centres will be revisited by the IPS once all prisoners are fully vaccinated. | The Irish Prison Service aims to reintroduce physical visits in July. | IPS / Prison Management | Q3 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Full day visits have been restored in Shelton Abbey since May 2022. Physical visits are now operating a pre pandemic levels. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | SACT12 | Two hours of meaningful human contact (as defined in section 5.3) must be facilitated each day for people in quarantine/isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 25/06/2021 | Prisoners in Shelton Abbey are placed in quarantine/isolation on return from Temporary Release. The last positive covid 19 prisoner case in Shelton Abbey was December 2020. All prisoner in Shelton Abbey have mobile phones and can therefore communicate with the Gov, A/Gov and other staff members. Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Prisoners in quarantine/isolation are managed in line with IPS national protocols developed by the Emergency Response Planning Team. Restrictions on physical contact are necessary for infection control measures. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | ||||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | SACT13 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | "See SACT9" Recommendation under review: The IPS acknowledges the importance of psychological support (mental health) for people in Open Centres. An IPS Psychologist attends Shelton Abbey one day per month, primarily providing consultation to the Multi-disciplinary team. The implementation of this recommendation would require additional resources. Any resource required for this would have to be applied for through the estimates process and agreed by the Department. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Service | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Activities / Services | External Engagement | SACT14 | In line with the UN Mandela Rules (Rule 4) and the CPT’s “minimum decency threshold,” additional meaningful activities should be available to prisoners to negate the lost opportunities, such as work in the community experienced by prisoners during COVID-19 restrictions. Work in the community should resume as soon as it is safe to do under public health guidance. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | External employment to resume when it is considered safe to do so in the context of infection control and community restrictions. | Assessment of Infection Control and Operational requirements to be undertaken, including quarantining arrangements in Shelton Abbey | Care & Rehabilitation Operations SA Management | Q3 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Temporary release for employment was restored in Q3 2021 in line with the unwinding of COVID-19 restrictions. - IPS HQ Operations | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Education | Digital Learning | SACT15 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rules, Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | An in-cell technology plan is being developed to enhance learning capacities for prisoners and increase information and learning for those confined to cell. Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are examining technology solutions to allow prisoners to access educational materials on the education network from within cells. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q2 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Parole Board | SACT16 | The Irish Prison Service must ensure that prisoners are able to engage with services required in order to fulfil Parole Board requirements in an open prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | This recommendation is under review pending the commencement of the statutory Parole Board. | Plan for management of Life Sentenced Prisoners to be agreed with IPS and Department of Justice. | Operations | Under review | NA | NA | NA | 14-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | Operations Directorate and Prison management will continue to ensure that prisoners engage fully with the Parole Board. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted and prisoners are in a position to engage with the necessary services in line with Parole Board recommendations. The Irish Prison Service is engaging with the new Parole Board with regard to the management of life sentence prisoner cases under the new Parole Board structures. | ||
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | SACT17 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan and have at a minimum one meeting with the ISM officer per year. Prisoners should be provided with a written copy of their sentence plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 25/06/2021 | ISM is Monday-Friday at Shelton Abbey. This further enhances the ISM function and availability of same to prisoners. To further support the development of the ISM function in all prisons a new centralised recording database for ISM interviews and prisoner multi-disciplinary sentence management plans is currently at the user acceptance testing phase of implementation. This database will provide the resources necessary to improve oversight and reporting in relation to the ISM function at Shelton Abbey. A Resettlement Service is provided to sentenced prisoners at Shelton Abbey by IASIO who assist with applications for housing, welfare and medical cards in preparation for release. | Database in testing phase. | Care and Rehabilitation/ Human Resources | End Q2 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 08/06/2021 | Shelton Abbey | Activities / Services | Access | SACT18 | In line with Rule 83(c) of the Revised European Prison Rules, prison authorities should co-ordinate external services in order to achieve positive outcomes for prisoners. External services should be accessible to prisoners through video-conferencing if not deemed safe in-person, in line with public health guidance. | Resettlement | Under Review | 25/06/2021 | Prison Management make every effort to facilitate the delivery of rehabilitative services to prisoners. Consideration will be given to expanding the current external services offering. | Prison Management / Care & Rehabilitation | Q3 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | No further update from Q1/Q2. Prison management continue to facilitate access to external services subject to availability of resources. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Prison management continue to facilitate access to external services subject to availability of resources. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The restriction on external services has been removed in line with the Irish Prison Service unwinding of prison restrictions. | ||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | AHCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information is provided to prisoners on quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. The information, which has been designed by prisoners for prisoners, is provided in a clear, easy to read plain English format. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. In additional prisoners are provided with verbal information by prison management on the quarantine process including the timelines and testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. Governor provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed an augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | AHCT2 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Living with COVID-19 and/or Unwinding of Prison Restrictions (as applicable). Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans relating to family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 20/08/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has commenced the unwinding of prison restrictions in line with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination programme in all prisons. Extensive communication with prisoners is carried out at all times to raise awareness of changes to restrictive measures. Arbour Hill management continue to brief prisoners on changes via Governor’s Parade and class officers are available to communicate with prisoner at all times. The prisoners Red Cross continue to develop information booklets and arrange regular information leaflet cell drops. The Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | AHCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, (Rule 22.1) and European Prison Rules, (Rule 22.4), the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at times reflected in the community: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. The Irish Prison Service has been engaging with the staff representative association with regard to implementing this change across the prison system. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service has reintroduced divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation / Human Resources | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Staffing | Chaplaincy | AHCT4 | In line with the UN Mandela Rules (Rule 65 (1)), consideration should be given to the establishment of a permanent full-time Chaplain in Arbour Hill Prison. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison has a full-time Chaplain post however, the permanent post holder has been on an extended absence from duty, resulting in the need to use a Locum Chaplain (shared with Mountjoy Prison). The Arbour Hill Chaplain has recently returned to the role on a full-time basis. | Care and Rehabilitation | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Religion | Access | AHCT5 | In line with the easing of restrictions in the community, in-person religious services in prison should resume while maintaining public health guidelines. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is currently in the process of restoring in person religious services across the system. The National Infection Control Team has provided updated covid-19 guidance and infection control advice allowing for the restoration of in person religious services in all prisons (subject to the completion of the vaccination programme). Religious Services recommenced in Arbour Hill Prison on Sunday 22/08/2021 . | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Disability | AHCT6 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty and Rules 15 and 16 of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules), a shower screen and extractor fan should be installed in in-cell showers for cells that accommodate prisoners with physical disabilities. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Extractor fans are already installed in these cells. Arbour Hill Prison management and Building Services Division will review the provision of the shower screens and undertake remedial works if appropriate. | The provision of shower/privacy screens will be reviewed. | Building Services Division / Prison management | Under review/TBC | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The trial of the new privacy curtain is being implemented in Wheatfied Prison in Q2 2024 and if sucessful will be extended to all appropriate cells across the estate.. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Extractor fans are fitted and fully functional. Prison management have considered options to restore privacy screens and have engaged with the people in custody in this regard. Those in such cells have expressed concern with regard to the impact that the reinstallation of privacy screens would have on usable space within the cell. Building Service Division is exploring the use of a bespoke cell shower/toilet privacy curtain which would provide privacy without compromising the safety of cell occupants. The concept is currently being considered including the completion of appropriate risk assessments. It is intended to install the curtain in Wheatfield Prison as a pilot in Q3 2023 and if successful to roll out installation to all other locations requiring same. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | This action was to be addressed through planned maintenance of cells in Arbour Hill. Works were deferred due to Covid-19. Prison management are considering plans and prototypes for the installation of privacy screens and a further update will be provided in due course. | ||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Environment | Privacy | AHCT7 | In line with the CPT standards on living conditions, and with respect to the European Convention on Human Rights Article 8, all multi-occupancy cells in Arbour Hill Prison should meet minimum CPT requirements, with access to a fully-partitioned toilet facility. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison dates back to 1848 and as a result there are physical limitations on the cellular accommodation. Prison management and Building Services Division are reviewing the reinstatement of 900mm privacy screens in multi-occupancy cells. Screens, which were previously fitted, were removed by prisoners. Screens of this height provide adequate privacy while still facilitating checks to ensure safety of Prisoners. | Privacy screen to be reinstated in cells. | Building Services Division / Prison management | Under review/TBC | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Prison management in conjunction with BSD are considering plans and prototypes for the installation of privacy screens and a further update will be provided in due course. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Building Service Division is exploring the use of a bespoke cell shower/toilet privacy curtain which would provide privacy without compromising the safety of cell occupants. The concept is currently being considered including the completion of appropriate risk assessments. A Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) has been completed on a proposed new wing development at Cloverhill Prison. The SAR has been reviewed by the Department of Justice who have sanctioned the IPS to move to next phase – preliminary Business Case. This will involve a more detailed analysis and overall scope deliverables and budget pertaining to the preferred options. It is planned that the Preliminary Business Case will be submitted to DOJ by end Q2 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | This action was to be addressed through planned maintenance of cells in Arbour Hill. Works were deferred due to Covid-19. Prison management are considering plans and prototypes for the installation of privacy screens and a further update will be provided in due course. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Staff Training | Human Rights | AHCT8 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that all prison staff participate in ongoing and continuous training and awareness-raising programmes on international human rights standards and principles of equality and non-discrimination. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | All staff are reminded on an ongoing basis of the need to treat prisoners with dignity and respect. All staff who join the Irish Prison Service receive training in relation to human rights, equality and diversity. This training has evolved in response to evolving societal values, legislation and international human rights. The Irish Prison Service appointed an Equality and Diversity Lead in 2019 with a view to advancing a number of actions to enhance dignity and respect within the Service. A specific anti-racism awareness campaign was rolled out via the Intranet in March 2021 by the Equality and Diversity Lead. The Director General wrote to all staff in March 2021 reminding them of the need to uphold human rights and treat people in their care with dignity and respect. The Irish Prison Service recently procured a Learning Management System and intends to provide training to staff in relation to the new Code of Ethics (completed and due for publication in Q3 2021) and Section 42 responsibilities through E-Learning in the near future. The Service is committed to designing and delivering more bespoke training in relation to the important areas of human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion. A prisoner may raise a concern or make a formal complaint via the Prisoner Complaint Process. All complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness and will be thoroughly investigated. The Governor has advised that 1 complaint was received from a prisoner who alleged they had been subject to inappropriate comments by a staff member. The matter was formally investigated and the complaint was not upheld. | E-learning modules in development. Publication of code of Ethics | Irish Prison Service Training College Director General | Ongoing Q3 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service published a new Code of Ethics for staff in December 2021. The Code is available on the Irish Prison Service Intranet and on the external website. The Irish Prison service facilitated research by Trinity College into prisoner's experiences in making complaints. The research is due to be published by the author in due course. The Irish Prison Service has received an advance copy of the research and is considering same. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | AHCT9 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population.The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison has a bed capacity of 138. The daily average number in custody in 2020 was 130 or an average occupancy level of 94%. The average number in custody in Arbour Hill in 2021 (to 20/8/2021) is 123 or 89%. In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to continue to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | AHCT10 | In line with the European Prison Rules Rule 19.4 and the CPT Minimum Decency Threshold for Prisons, prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at a minimum, two times in a seven day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Given the relatively static prisoner population in Arbour Hill Prison, very few prisoners have been required to quarantine or isolate, with the exception being during the Covid-19 outbreak in February (19/02/2021 – 08/03/2021). The Infection Control Guidance on the provision of showers for prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation was updated in July by the NICT to allow for two showers in a seven day period – where operationally feasible. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. Any prisoner required to quarantine or isolate in Arbour Hill is also provided with a care pack that includes hygiene products. | The Infection control Guidance on the provision of showers for prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation was updated in July to allow for two showers in a seven day period – where operationally feasible. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | AHCT11 | In line with the June 2021 SPT Follow-Up Advice relating to COVID-19, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to implement all possible measures for improving social and family contact for people in order to compensate for COVID-19-related isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Every effort continues to be made by the Irish Prison Service to allow prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation to have contact with family and prison services. This includes the use of in-cell telephones and the use of tablet computers for those on significantly restricted regimes. A critical measure in the prevention of the possible spread of covid-19 to the prison population has been the isolation and quarantining of suspected or positive cases of covid-19. This measure is consistent with action taken by other services who manage positive and suspected cases. The priority for the Irish Prison Service and prison management is to limit and reduce the time spent by prisoners in isolation/quarantine through the testing process. Physical visits to prisons have also recommenced in line with the roll out of the prison vaccination programme. Physical visits in Arbour Hill recommenced on 24/7/2021. | Continue the provision of in cell technology to allow prisoners to maintain contact with family and services. | Ongoing. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | ||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | AHCT12 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have access to at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | AHCT13 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners coping with the restrictive measures imposed as a result of COVID-19. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Education | Digital Learning | AHCT14 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 20/08/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. Blended learning has not yet formally commenced pending consultation with Staff Association. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q3 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Library | Access | AHCT15 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules, Arbour Hill Prison should proactively consider the re-opening of library services in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Arbour Hill library is open and Dublin City Council library services resumed at the end of July 2021. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | NA | |||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Psychology | BBL Programme | AHCT16 | In line with ICCPR Article 10 (3) and the need to ensure prisoners have continued access to rehabilitative services, the Inspectorate recommends the Irish Prison Service continue to assess and revise / replace the Building Better Lives programme to ensure effective and timely engagement. This may include augmenting resources for the psychology service across Arbour Hill Prison (and Midlands Prison) to ensure an adequate number of staff are available to provide a service to all people convicted of a sexual offence. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | Arbour Hill resettlement and community services were provided virtually and maintained virtually insofar as was possible throughout the pandemic, e.g. Grow and AA. Release requirements were met, including requirements for release of people convicted of a sexual offence. The BBL programme has resumed face to face meetings within the past month. The Irish Prison Service is reviewing its approach to the management of prisoners convicted of sexual violence and the operation of the Building Better Lives Programmes. In this regard, the Irish Prison Service has submitted a business case for the provision of additional resources for the treatment of sexual violence via the 2022 Estimates Process. | Business case submitted as part of Estimates Process | Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service submitted a business case for additional resources to staff a programme for sexual violence treatment. This would see up to 80% of people convicted of sexual violence engaging in in risk and needs led assessment treatment. The Service was successful in achieving partial funding for this programme and has submitted a business case through the estimates process 2023 for the remaining funding. An advertising campaign for suitable staff closed on 9th August 2022 with interviews in Sept 2022. A procurement process is also underway to secure the support required to make significant changes to the current treatment programme for sexual violence. This will include risk assessment at an early stage in sentence to inform sentence management and treatment options, working with people who deny and minimise their offence(s), working with people with mental disorders who have been sexually violent, and provision of treatment for people in all risk categories and with shorter sentences. - IPS HQ Psychology Care and Rehabilitation | ||
| 26/07/2021 | Arbour Hill Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | AHCT17 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan and have regular meetings with the ISM officer per year. Prisoners should be provided with a written copy of their sentence plan. The vacant ISM officer post in Arbour Hill Prison should be filled immediately. | Resettlement | Accepted | 20/08/2021 | The ISM post in Arbour hill is not vacant however the post holder is current absent from duty. A temporary panel has now been formed and staff have been trained to undertake this task until the return of the permanent post holder. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | CKCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, Cork Prison and the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information about the process of quarantine is provided to prisoners on an ongoing basis. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. The information, which has been designed by prisoners for prisoners, is provided in a clear, easy to read plain English format. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. In additional prisoners are provided with verbal information by prison management on the quarantine process including the timelines and testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. The Chief Officer in Cork provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. Governor follows this up following committal quarantine. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | CKCT2 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Living with COVID-19 and/or Unwinding of Prison Restrictions (as applicable). Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans relating to family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has completed significant unwinding of prison restrictions in line with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination programme in all prisons. Extensive communication with prisoners is undertaken at all times to raise awareness of changes to restrictive measures. Cork management continue to brief prisoners on changes via Governor’s Parade and class officers are available to communicate with prisoner at all times. The prisoners Red Cross continue to develop information booklets and arrange regular information leaflet cell drops. The Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | CKCT3 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, Rule 22 and European Prison Rules, Rule 22.4, the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at times reflected in the community: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. The Irish Prison Service has been engaging with the staff representative association with regard to implementing this change across the prison system. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service has reintroduced divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Court | Remote Courts | CKCT4 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with persons in custody on the impact of remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Foreign National Prisoners | Information | CKCT5 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that Foreign National and non-English speaking prisoners have equal access to provision of information. It must also enact positive measures to ensure the protection, promotion and fulfilment of the human rights of non-English speaking and Foreign National prisoners, including the right to private and family life (ECHR Article 8, European Prison Rules, Rule 37.1). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Management will ensure that Interpreters are used for all committal interviews and for sentence planning purposes. Cork Prison Management will explore other options to support non-English language speaking prisoners to overcome language difficulties | Management to advance the purchase of hand-held interpretation devices to assist non-English speaking prisoners. | Cork Prison Management/ICT | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has developed a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet with extensive information about all aspects of prison regimes and services. The booklet is translated into a number of languages and is reviewed every two years. The booklet is currently under review. Consideration is being given to creating an induction video, based on the Living in Cell Booklet, which will be broadcast via the prisoner TV Channel. The TV channel will be managed centrally to allow for consistent management of information across the prison estate. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Staff Training | Human Rights | CKCT6 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, the Irish Prison Service should ensure that all prison staff participate in ongoing and continuous training and awareness-raising programmes on international human rights standards and principles of equality and non-discrimination. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | All staff are reminded on an ongoing basis of the need to treat prisoners with dignity and respect. All staff who join the Irish Prison Service receive training in relation to human rights, equality and diversity. This training has evolved in response to evolving societal values, legislation and international human rights. The Irish Prison Service appointed an Equality and Diversity Lead in 2019 with a view to advancing a number of actions to enhance dignity and respect within the Service. A specific anti-racism awareness campaign was rolled out via the Intranet in March 2021 by the Equality and Diversity Lead. The Director General wrote to all staff in March 2021 reminding them of the need to uphold human rights. IPS recently procured a Learning Management System and we hope to provide training to our staff in relation to our new Code of Ethics (completed and due for publication in Q4 2021) and Section 42 responsibilities through E-Learning in the near future. The IPS is committed to designing and delivering more bespoke training in relation to the important areas of human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion. A prisoner may raise a concern or make a formal complaint via the Prisoner Complaint Process. All complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness and will be thoroughly investigated. | E-learning modules in development. Publication of Code of Ethics Enhanced anti-racism and discrimination awareness programme to be developed locally and nationally. Survey to be completed on prisoner experiences and perceptions of making complaints | Irish Prison Service Training College Director General Equality and Diversity Lead Local Management Equality and Diversity Lead/ Red Cross Volunteers | Ongoing Q4 2021 Q4 2021 Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | All staff are reminded on an ongoing basis of the need to treat prisoners with dignity and respect. All staff who join the IPS receive training in relation to human rights, equality and diversity. This training has evolved in response to evolving societal values, legislation and international human rights. Awareness campaigns are available on the IPS intranet platform PRISM “No Sexual Harassment” and “No to Racism” and staff from the Corporate Services and Human Resources Directorates have visited a number of prisons, including Cork Prison, to remind staff of our culture and values under the Code of Ethics, our obligations under the Dignity at Work and processes involved and on the No Sexual Harassment campaign. The IPS Learning Management System will be used to provide training to our staff in relation to the Code of Ethics and Section 42 responsibilities through E-Learning. The IPS is committed to designing and delivering more bespoke training in relation to the important areas of human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion. | 9-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | All staff joining the Irish Prison Service receive training in relation to human rights, equality and diversity. The e-learning platform is due to be launched at the start of April 2023 and topics emanating from Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty will be developed as a priority in the e learning packages. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service published a new Code of Ethics for staff in December 2021. The Code is available on the Irish Prison Service Intranet and on the external website. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Prisoner Engagement with OIP | Reprisal | CKCT7 | In line with the European Prison Rules, Rule 93.3, Cork Prison and the Irish Prison Service should undertake a robust information campaign to ensure prisoners and prison staff are informed of their right to engage with the Office of the Inspector of Prisons, and other monitoring bodies, without fear of reprisal. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The Irish Prison Service will roll out an awareness campaign in consultation with the Office of the Inspector of Prisons. | Communications Team to develop awareness materials with the Office of the Inspector of Prisons for dissemination through the Prisoner TV Channel and inclusion in Prisoner information Literature | Press Office | End Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service has an Information Booklet for prisoners committed to prison. An update of this booklet has been completed which includes information on the OIP and is scheduled for printing once printing services are reinstated at Arbour Hill Prison. Information provided by the OIP was and is provided to prisoners in custody. The Irish Prison Service created a Rule 44 video and published on the prisoner TV channel. In addition to this, there was also a prisoner leaflet issued to all prisons. | 10-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS Communications Team continue to work on an awareness campaign in conjunction with the Operations Directorate which it is hoped will be progressed in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Work has commenced on the development of a comprehensive awareness campaign for both prisoner and staff on a number of issues such as contact with the Inspector of Prisons Office, correspondence with bodies under Rule 44 of the Prison Rules and the Prisoner complaints Process. The campaign will be rolled out in Q3 2022. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | CKCT8 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Cork prison has a bed capacity of 296. The daily average number in custody in 2020 was 271 or an average occupancy level of 93%. The average number in custody in Cork in 2021 (to 23/8/2021) is 259 or 88%. In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to continue to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Family Contact | Telephone | CKCT9 | In line with Rule 24.1 of the European Prison Rules, and following the success of the family call-in pilot project in May/June 2021, the Inspectorate recommends that all necessary steps be taken to ensure the family call-in initiative is made permanent in Cork Prison. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | A cross-Directorate Group oversaw the recent pilot ‘proof of concept’ initiative in Cork Prison, led by Operations and ICT. The Pilot is being reviewed with a view to identifying the requirements for broadening and roll out to all locations. This includes identification of the resource requirements including licencing and technology costs. | Review of Pilot project to be completed Additional resources have been sought through the 2022 Estimates process that, if approved, will allow for the enhancement of in-cell telephony solutions in Cork and across the prison system | Prison Management/ Operations/ ICT ICT/Department of Justice | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Inbound telephony roll out is in progress. | 10-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The in-bound telephony initiative was a pilot and was operational in Cork prison during the pilot phase only. The learnings from the pilot are being factored into revised business requirements. It is intended to implement in-bound telephony across the estate in 2023 subject to the availability of required resources. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has allocated capital funding for the installation of in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate. In-cell telephones are now available in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Prison Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of 2022. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Prison Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. The installation of telephones to allow for a call out service has been prioritised. The enabling of a system to allow call in will be considered in due course and requires careful consideration for operational and security reasons however initial pilot projects such as Cork have proven beneficial. The call in system requires new software licencing arrangements and will require the allocation of appropriate resources. ICT are conducting an analysis of costs and it is hoped to progress this action in 2023, subject to costs and adequate resources. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | CKCT10 | In line with the June 2021 SPT Follow-Up Advice relating to COVID-19, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to implement all possible measures for improving social and family contact for people in order to compensate for COVID-19-related isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Every effort continues to be made by the Irish Prison Service to allow prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation to have contact with family and prison services. This includes the use of in-cell telephones and the use of tablet computers for those on significantly restricted regimes. A critical measure in the prevention of the possible spread of covid-19 to the prison population has been the isolation and quarantining of suspected or positive cases of covid-19. This measure is consistent with action taken by other services who manage positive and suspected cases. The priority for the Irish Prison Service and prison management is to limit and reduce the time spent by prisoners in isolation/quarantine through the testing process. Physical visits to prisons have also recommenced in line with the roll out of the prison vaccination programme. Physical visits recommenced on Friday 3rd September 2021. | Continue the provision of in cell technology to allow prisoners to maintain contact with family and services. | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | ||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | CKCT11 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have access to at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | ||||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | CKCT12 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners coping with the restrictive measures imposed as a result of COVID-19. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | ||||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Restricted Regime | Out-of-Cell Time | CKCT13 | The Inspectorate urges Cork Prison to consider all available ways to increase out-of-cell time and maximise access to services for prisoners accommodated under Rule 63 of the Irish Prison Rules. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Every effort is made by prison management to provide maximum out of cell time for prisoners on restricted regime for protection reasons. The Irish Prison Service has introduced new technologies to support those who are more confined to their cells and these technologies will allow greater levels of access to regimes and services post covid-19. These include in-cell telephones and the Prisoner TV/Information Channel. Providing enhanced regimes for restricted prisoners is being considered as part of the development of an in-cell learning plan (CKCT14 refers). The operation of Rule 63 is also being reviewed by the Irish Prison Service as part of the Review of the Prison Rules, 2007. The aim of the Irish Prison Service is to reduce the number of prisoners confined to their cells under Rule 63. | Review of Rule 63 to be completed as part of Review of Prison Rules | Operations Directorate | Q2 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Review of the Prison Rules is complete and proposed updates have been submitted to the Dept of Justice. | 28-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service commenced a review of Prison Rules in 2020 following the publication of the revised European Prison Rules by the Council of Europe. Progress on the Review was delayed due to challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, work on the Review restarted in 2022 and significant progress has been achieved on the development of a working document. This includes the development of draft amendments to give effect to the provisions of the European Prison Rules 2020, amendments suggested from within the Irish Prison Service and amendments arising from the public consultation phase. The working document is currently being considered by the Irish Prison Service, and once this is completed, the Irish Prison Service will be engaging with officials in the Department on the next steps. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The review of prison rules is ongoing. It is intended to bring forward the review of a number of priority rule changes in 2023 and it is intended to consider the operation of Rule 63 in this regard. Every effort is made by the Irish Prison Service to ensure the safety of all those accommodated in prisons. Prisoners who are accommodated on restricted regimes can be limited in their ability to engage with important rehabilitative services. The Irish Prison Service has introduced new technologies to support those who are more confined to their cells and these technologies will allow greater levels of access to regimes and services post covid-19. These include in-cell telephones and the Prisoner TV/Information Channel. Enhancing in-cell supports for those accommodated on a more restricted regime by harnessing new technological advancements will be considered in the context of the development of the next IPS Strategic Plan 2023 - 2025 (subject to the provision of required resources). | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Education | Digital Learning | CKCT14 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 02/09/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. Complete engagement with the staff representative association on the introduction of blended learning. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 End September 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Library | Access | CKCT15 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules, Cork Prison should proactively consider the re-opening of library services in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The library at Cork Prison has re-opened. Closures may occur where resources are reassigned in line with Cork’s Regime Management Plan. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | ||||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | CKCT16 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact,” the Inspectorate recommends that Cork Prison develops and implements measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Rule 32A is implemented, when necessary, as a measure to ensure the health and safety of all prisoners and staff working in prisons. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Emergency Response Planning Team. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | ||||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Environment | Green Space | CKCT17 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 02/09/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. Security considerations will be taken into account when considering any enhancement to the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 12/08/2021 | Cork Prison | Foreign National Prisoners | Intrepreter / Translation | CKCT18 | The Inspectorate recommends that qualified interpreters be made available, either in-person or through videolink, to assist prisoners and the resettlement team in Cork Prison to ensure information is conveyed accurately and effectively over the course of the resettlement preparation process. | Resettlement | Accepted | 02/09/2021 | The Governor has agreed with the ISM team that all non-English speaking prisoners are offered the option of an interpreter. Additional technological solutions will also be explored. | Management to advance to purchase of hand-held interpretation devices to assist non-English speaking prisoners. | Cork Prison Management | End Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Interpreter services are in place and provided on request. The Prison In cell TV channel is in place in prisons and provides for information dissemination in cell. Content can be uploaded and played in any language for different programmes as required. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Interpreter services are provided on request both in person and online. The Prison In cell TV channel is in place in prisons and provides for information dissemination in cell. Content can be uploaded and played in any language for different programmes as required. Complementary modes of information dissemination to include subtitles can also be played on the Prison In Cell TV channel. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Technical solutions for the provision of interpretative services continue to be explored. The majority of solutions require internet access which is not currently available. ICT are looking at options | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | MDCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, Midlands Prison and the Irish Prison Service must ensure that written and oral information is provided to all prisoners, in a form they can understand; this may require the assistance of interpreters, prior to and upon entering quarantine and on an ongoing basis over the course of quarantine. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. The information, which has been designed by prisoners for prisoners, is provided in a clear, easy to read plain English format. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. In addition, prisoners are provided with verbal information by prison management on the quarantine process including the timelines and testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. The Governor in Midlands Prison provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Foreign National Prisoners | Information | MDCT2 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty and Rule 37.1 of the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that Foreign National Prisoners have equal access to the provision of information in a language they can understand. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Print shop at Midlands Prison remains closed due to the absence of the post holder. The Governor in Midlands Prison has sought support in putting a contingency plan in place to restore print services and increase supply of information. Midlands Prison Management will explore other options to support non-English language speaking prisoners to overcome language difficulties. Management in Cork Prison have commenced a trial of a hand held translation device which if successful will be rolled out to other locations. | The IPS will carry out a review of the operation of the Midlands Prison Work shop to identify long term options for the resourcing of same. | Prison Management, HR, Corporate Services | End Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Midlands Print Shop reopened in early 2022. The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide information for prisoners in a range of languages. The Service continues to explore a technical solution to support real-time language translation and ICT Division are looking at options in this regard. - Prison Management | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | MDCT3 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Unwinding of Prison Restrictions. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans relating to family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has completed significant unwinding of prison restrictions in line with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination programme in all prisons. Extensive communication with prisoners is undertaken at all times to raise awareness of changes to restrictive measures. Midlands Prison management continue to brief prisoners on changes via Governor’s Parade and class officers are available to communicate with prisoner at all times. The prisoners Red Cross continue to develop information booklets and arrange regular information leaflet cell drops. The Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Continue to update as required | Prison Management Team | In place and Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Prisoner Engagement with OIP | Access to Reports | MDCT4 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service make all Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Irish Prison Service Communications team will work to identify opportunities to make Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Communications team to engage with colleagues at OIP | Communications/ Press Office | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has agreed a process for the distribution of material with the office of the Inspector of Prison. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Food | Meal Scheduling | MDCT5 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules, Rule 22 and European Prison Rules, Rule 22.4, the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling of meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at usual times: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. The Irish Prison Service has been engaging with the staff representative association with regard to implementing this change across the prison system. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service has reintroduced divisional unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Court | Remote Courts | MDCT6 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with prisoners on the impact of remote court hearings. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Complaints | Replace IPS Complaints System | MDCT7 | In line with Rule 70.9 of the Revised European Prison Rules, and the need to ensure prisoners are able to submit a complaint without fear of reprisal, the Inspectorate encourages the Irish Prison Service to promptly replace the current complaints system that has been identified as unfit for purpose by this office over many years. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Criminal Policy Division of the Dept of Justice in relation to the development of a new complaints process. All complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness and will be thoroughly investigated. Prison management advised that there are currently seven complaints boxes at various locations around Midlands Prison and all prisoners pass a complaints box at meal times. | Complaints system under review | Operations | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is continuing its engagement with the Department of Justice, Inspector of Prisons and other stakeholders to update and improve the rules governing the Prisoner Complaint System. | 14-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Office of Parliamentary Counsel are in the process of drafting a new Statutory Instrument to provide a basis for the re-structure of the Prisoner Complaint Policy. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service have engaged with the Department of Justice and the Office of Parliamentary Council on the drafting of new legislation to give effect to the new Prisoner Complaints Process. The process is ongoing and the Irish Prison Service is awaiting the outcome of the drafting process. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Staffing | Availability | MDCT8 | ln line with Rule 83 (a) of the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that the management of prisons is done in such a way as to ensure prisons are adequately staffed at all times to meet a safe and secure environment and to effectively deliver on the provision of services. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Each prison has an agreed task list which identifies the resource requirements to operate the prison, this does not include unpredictable tasks which are derived from prisoner and staff needs and which vary each quarter. Factors which influence the demands are the prisoner and staff demographics and the prison environment. These unpredictable tasks are in the main covered by applying Additional Hours to individual Officers to support the prisons’ services. Additional tasks which have not been considered in the task list are identified daily and added to the recognised tasks in order to establish the number of staff required. Where a gap between the staff numbers required and the numbers available (either through unplanned absences, unplanned demands for additional staff, or both), it is the responsibility of each prison to determine how to meet the shortfall through, for example, requiring attendance of some staff on Additional Hours within the budget available (provided for in the PSA: Haddington Road Agreement). Where unplanned task demands exceed resource availability the prison will apply a Regime Management Plan which is a tool to ensure the delivery of IPS policies and structured activities against the backdrop of reduced staffing levels, while ensuring a safe working environment for staff., the RMP outlines the level of activities/services which can be provided on any given day, given staffing levels, bringing a level of predictability and stability to the operation of the prison. The plan is heavily focussed on ensuring the continued delivery of structured activities to prisoners and on encouraging prisoners to engage in structured activities by prioritising the assignment of staff to these services. | Local Management/ Human Resources Directorate | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | All prisons have a Regime Management Plan in place to ensure the safe unlock of prisoners taking account of the resources available on a given day. The plan is heavily focussed on ensuring the continued delivery of structured activities to prisoners and on encouraging prisoners to engage in structured activities by prioritising the assignment of staff to these services. The Irish Prison Service has sought additional prison officer resources in the 2023 Estimates process to address staff shortfalls arising due to additional tasks such as Escorting of remand prisoners. | ||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | MDCT9 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Midlands Prison has a bed capacity of 875. The daily average number in custody in 2020 was 814 or an average occupancy level of 93%. The average number in custody in Midlands in 2021 (to 14/9/2021) is 803 or 92%. In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. The IPS has engaged with the Department of Justice to examine potential solutions to continue to manage the prison population in a way that ensures effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Staffing | Healthcare | MDCT10 | The Inspectorate recommends that Midlands Prison and the Irish Prison Service take measures to reduce healthcare waiting lists and to ensure effective scheduling and timely access to a doctor for all prisoners. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Midlands Prison management are actively seeking to reduce Healthcare waiting lists. A second full time GP has been appointed, which has contributed to a more sustainable and robust GP service. | Care and Rehabilitation & Prison Management are implementing solutions. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Midlands Prison management are actively seeking to reduce Healthcare waiting lists. A second full time GP has been appointed, which has contributed to a more sustainable and robust GP service. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Postal Correspondence | Photocopying | MDCT11 | The Irish Prison Service should develop a clear policy on the photocopying of post. This policy should apply key principles (e.g., proportionality, necessity, review and the recording of reasons for its justification) and balance the rights of prisoners against security concerns. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The practice of photocopying post was a response by Midlands Prison to an influx of covert contraband in Prisoners’ post. An ion scanner and accompanying SOP have been received from OSG and are in place. The Operations Directorate are developing a national policy around scanning and photocopying of post. | Operations Directorate | Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | New security equipment - Ion scanners - were rolled out to all prisons to support the testing of incoming correspondence for illicit substances thus eliminating the need for the photocopying of incoming mail. - IPS Operations / Prison Mgmt. | ||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Meaningful Human Contact | MDCT12 | In line with the June 2021 SPT Follow-Up Advice relating to COVID-19, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to implement all possible measures for improving social and family contact for people in order to compensate for COVID-19-related isolation. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Every effort continues to be made by the Irish Prison Service to allow prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation to have contact with family and prison services. This includes the use of in-cell telephones. A contract has been signed for roll out of in-cell telephony in Midlands Prison, with rollout to commence in October. Physical visits to prisons have also recommenced in line with the roll out of the prison vaccination programme. Physical visits in Midlands Prison resumed on 5th August 2021. | Continue the provision of in cell technology to allow prisoners to maintain contact with family and services. | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A project for the installation of in-cell telephones to all prison cells is ongoing. In-cell phones are operational in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Cork, Limerick and Midlands Prisons. Projects in Portlaoise Prison and Dóchas Centre are currently ongoing and will be completed by the end of Q2 2023. Tenders for Arbour Hill, Mountjoy Prison including the Training Unit and Progression Unit will be completed before the end of Q2 2023 with the installation completed by the end of 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Throughout the pandemic every effort was made to ensure all prisoners could continue to have meaningful contact with others. Prisoners who were confirmed as Covid-19 positive or suspected as having Covid-19 were isolated, in line with Standard Operating Procedures, to prevent the spread of infection. This is in line with action taken in the community. The Irish Prison Service introduced video visiting technology to allow prisoners to communicate with family and friends when physical visits were suspended. This option has been retained as an additional communication tool to support family contact. In-cell telephones were introduced in all locations as a temporary measure during the pandemic however, a major project to install in-cell telephones in all cells across the prison estate on a permanent basis has been commenced. As a result in-cell telephones have been installed in is complete in Castlerea, Cloverhill, Midlands, Cork and Limerick prisons. The Service anticipates the completion of in-cell telephony to the Dóchas Centre, Portlaoise and Wheatfield Prisons by the end of this year. Subject to the availability of necessary resources, the Service intend to provide in-cell telephony in Arbour Hill and Mountjoy Male prison in 2023. While physical visits were suspended for periods during 2020 and 2021 (for infection control reasons) the Irish Prison Service ensured that suspension of physical visits was lifted as soon as it was deemed safe to do so. The Service has continued to unwind restrictions on physical visits with visits now permitted every fortnight and no restrictions on capacity. It is expected to return to weekly visits in Q3 2022 subject to available resources. | ||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Access to Showers | MDCT13 | In line with the Revised European Prison Rules Rule 19.4 and the CPT Decency Threshold for Prisons, prisoners in quarantine/isolation must be permitted to shower, if not daily, at a minimum, two times in a seven-day period. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Infection Control Guidance on the provision of showers for prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation was updated in July by the NICT to allow for two showers in a seven day period – where operationally feasible. All prisoners confined to their cell for the purpose of quarantine have access to hot water and soap to maintain adequate hygiene. This is in line with the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), Statement of Principles relating to the treatment of persons deprived of their liberty in the context of the Coronavirus disease. Any prisoner required to quarantine or isolate in Midlands Prison is also provided with a pack that includes hygiene and cell cleaning products. | The Infection control Guidance on the provision of showers for prisoners in Quarantine/Isolation was updated in July to allow for two showers in a seven day period – where operationally feasible. | Care and Rehabilitation; Human Resources | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (10/08/2022) setting out the correct procedures for the showering of prisoners in quarantine/isolation. It was agreed to allow prisoners up to 2 showers in a seven day period. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Fresh Air | MDCT14 | Prisoners in quarantine/isolation must have at least one hour in the open air each day. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Prisoners in quarantine have restricted out of cell time, in accordance with Rule 32A of SI 250/2020 Prison Rules 2020. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. In 2021, an average of 17 prisoners per day are subject to Rule 103 Quarantine or Rule 103 Isolation. This means that around 2% of the Midlands prison population are affected by Covid 19 restrictive measures on a daily basis. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | NA | NA | NA | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Complete | New committals are tested on day one and if negative, can enter general population. The isolation period for positive Covid cases is consistent with public health advice. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | It was not possible to allow prisoners in isolation or quarantine out of cell time to prevent the spread of infection. The Irish Prison Service continued to review the Standard Operating Procedure for quarantine and isolation throughout the pandemic. This included the reduction of the isolation period in line with guidance from the Health Authorities. As a result all new committals are now tested on day one of committal and, if the return a negative test, they may enter general population on day 4. | ||||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | MDCT15 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | |||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Restricted Regime | Out-of-Cell Time | MDCT16 | The Inspectorate urges Midlands Prison to consider all available ways to increase out-of-cell time and maximise access to services for prisoners accommodated under Rule 63 of the Irish Prison Rules. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Every effort is made by prison management to provide maximum out of cell time for prisoners on restricted regime for protection reasons. The Irish Prison Service has introduced new technologies to support those who are more confined to their cells and these technologies will allow greater levels of access to regimes and services post covid-19. These include in-cell telephones and the Prisoner TV/Information Channel. Midlands Prison have submitted a business case to split exercise yards in order to facilitate further out of cell time for Rule 63 prisoners. Providing enhanced regimes for restricted prisoners is being considered as part of the development of an in-cell learning plan. The operation of Rule 63 is also being reviewed by the Irish Prison Service as part of the Review of the Prison Rules, 2007. The aim of the Irish Prison Service is to reduce the number of prisoners confined to their cells under Rule 63. | Review of Rule 63 to be completed as part of Review of Prison Rules | Operations Directorate | Q2 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service Review of the Prison Rules is ongoing. The Midlands Prison is implementing a regime to prisoners on Rule 63 that is possible with the allocated resources. Midlands Prison have requested a Joint Task Review which HR Directorate will undertake in Q3 2024. | 14-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service commenced a review of Prison Rules in 2020 following the publication of the revised European Prison Rules by the Council of Europe. Progress on the Review was delayed due to challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, work on the Review restarted in 2022 and significant progress has been achieved on the development of a working document. This includes the development of draft amendments to give effect to the provisions of the European Prison Rules 2020, amendments suggested from within the Irish Prison Service and amendments arising from the public consultation phase. The working document is currently being considered by the Irish Prison Service, and once this is completed, the Irish Prison Service will be engaging with officials in the Department on the next steps. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The review of prison rules is ongoing. It is intended to bring forward the review of a number of priority rule changes in 2023 and it is intended to consider the operation of Rule 63 in this regard. Every effort is made by the Irish Prison Service to ensure the safety of all those accommodated in prisons. Prisoners who are accommodated on restricted regimes can be limited in their ability to engage with important rehabilitative services. The Irish Prison Service has introduced new technologies to support those who are more confined to their cells and these technologies will allow greater levels of access to regimes and services post covid-19. These include in-cell telephones and the Prisoner TV/Information Channel. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Education | Digital Learning | MDCT17 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 07/10/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. Director of Care and Rehabilitation continues to engage with the staff representative association on the introduction of blended learning and progress is anticipated in the immediate future. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Library | Access | MDCT18 | In line with Rule 110 of the Irish Prison Rules and on par with public health guidelines in the community, Midlands Prison should pro-actively consider the re-opening of library services in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The library at Midlands Prison has re-opened. Closures may occur where resources are reassigned in line with Midlands’ Regime Management Plan. | Care and Rehabilitation are undertaking a review of Library Services across the Prison Estate. | Care and Rehabilitation | Dec-21 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024. Midlands Prison awaits appointment of new librarians from the local authority. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has completed a review of Prison Libraries and work is underway to implement the recommendations from that report with a view to completing during 2023 and 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency has commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report of the group is to be published in Q3 2022. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | COVID-19 | Mitigate 2020 Rule Amendments | MDCT19 | In line with the requirement to ensure “meaningful human contact,” the Inspectorate recommends that Midlands Prison develop and implement measures designed to mitigate the impact of restrictions imposed on prisoner exercise and interactions by Rule 32A of the Irish Prison Rules; this should be done in consultation with prisoners and staff working in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Rule 32A is implemented, when necessary, as a measure to ensure the health and safety of all prisoners and staff working in prisons. Prisoners are fully informed of the quarantine rules on committal by the Governor on parade. Restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The introduction of rotational or landing unlock resulted in reduced out of cell time for prisoners during certain periods of restrictions in 2020 and 2021. As part of the unwinding of prison restriction divisional unlock was reintroduced in July 2021 across the estate. | ||||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Activities / Services | Access | MDCT20 | Midlands Prison should consider maximising the capacity of activities and services in the prison, in accordance with social distancing guidelines. In particular, access to activities that allow for safe social distancing, such as horticulture, should be increased. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Covid 19 related restrictions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Current numbers attending horticulture have been agreed to ensure staff safety. The number of participants will be kept under review, in line with the unwinding of infection control measures. | Subject to ongoing review | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The requirement for social distancing has been removed and capacities have returned to pre-pandemic levels. | |||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Work Training | Prisoner Certification | MDCT21 | In line with the Revised European Prison Rules (2020), Rule 26.7, Midlands Prison should ensure wherever possible that prisoners are provided with opportunities to achieve formal accreditation, particularly in areas that may assist in gaining employment upon release from prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | In line with the Revised European Prison Rules (2020), Rule 26.7, Midlands Prison should ensure wherever possible that prisoners are provided with opportunities to achieve formal accreditation, particularly in areas that may assist in gaining employment upon release from prison. The Irish Prison Service places a strong emphasis on the provision of vocational training activities for prisoners to prepare them for employment post-release. Work and Training section oversees the provision of accredited training to prisoners, provision of essential services to the prison (such as catering, laundry, industrial cleaning and waste management) to meet compliance standards and supports the provision of other constructive activities such as gyms, work parties and charitable work. A wide range of training workshops operate within the institutions, e.g. printing, computers, Braille, woodwork, metalwork, construction, craft and horticulture. In addition, essential services for the prisons i.e. catering, laundry services and industrial cleaning are provided through accredited work training. Courses are externally accredited by City & Guilds, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI), ECDL and other certifying bodies. A review of the Irish Prison Service work and training programme is currently being undertaken by the Irish Prison Service. | Programme under review | Care and Rehabilitation | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Review of Work and Training has completed. This review relies on the development and implementation of a prisoner progression plan to fully implement the recommendations contained in that review. Given the increase in prisoner population and overcrowding across the estate, the prisoner progression plan is still under development. Specifically by way of update for Midlands Prison, the Q1, 2023 note appears to be accurate. The work training area has been reviewed to expand accredited training in conjunction with Mount Lucas. The availability of workshops is locally dependent on the availability of appropriate staff and the requirement of the prison to implement the RMP. The prison has an identified requirement for 71 staff in the work training area, of which 68 are assigned (WTO grade or Higher Duties to WTO grade). There is a mix of accredited training and holistic courses available to prisoners as it is acknowledged that not all prisoners want to participate in accredited training. The Care & Rehabilitation Directorate identify accredited courses which directly relate to employment options for post release prisoners. Any changes in offering are referred back to the JTR team for consideration. It is the position that the JTR team will review the change at Midlands Print/Computer function, this should happen during Q4, 2023/Q1 2024. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Task Reviews are required for each work and training area following completion of the Report. The Task Review for Midlands is expected to be completed by end Q4 2023. A renewed emphasis is being placed on accredited training with emphasis on Catering, Laundry, Industrial Cleaning, Waste management, and Gym in 2023 Discussions are taking place with Mount Lucas, the National Construction Training Campus to examine the introduction of the NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) training course into prisons. This is a recognised industry standard and the course would be a stepping stone to acceptance to the full NZEB programme run by Mount Lucas. It is intended to progress in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Review of Work and Training has been completed. Task Reviews are required for each work and training area following completion of the Report and these have been deferred due to the management of Covid-19. The process will recommence at the end of August 2022. | |
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Activities / Services | Closures | MDCT22 | The Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service and Midlands Prison to put in place resources to ensure the print shop is operational, especially because provision of timely information is integral to the unwinding of COVID-19 restrictions in the prison. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The Midlands Prison Print shop is currently closed due to a long term absence of the post holder. Prison management are looking at interim solutions to support the printing of material pending the return of the post holder. The long term operation and staffing of the Print Workshop is being considered as part of the review of work and Training. | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | [The Print Shop in Midlands has been closed and a new replacement fabric workshop is due to open by Q1 2024. | 17-Feb-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Midlands Prison recognises the contribution the Print Shop makes to communications among stakeholders within the organisation. Task Review ongoing. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Midlands Print shop has been reopened. The future management and staffing of the print shop is being considered under the Task Review arising from the Review of Work Training. | |||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Environment | Green Space | MDCT23 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. Security considerations will be taken into account when considering any enhancement to the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 8-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and the Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Psychology | BBL Programme | MDCT24 | In line with ICCPR Article 10 (3) and the need to ensure prisoners have continued access to rehabilitative services, the Inspectorate recommends the Irish Prison Service continue to assess and revise / replace the Building Better Lives programme to ensure effective and timely engagement. This may include augmenting resources for the psychology service across Midlands Prison (and Arbour Hill Prison) to ensure an adequate number of staff are available to provide a service to all people convicted of a sexual offence. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Midlands Prison rehabilitative services were provided virtually and maintained virtually insofar as was possible throughout the pandemic. In line with the unwinding of restrictive measures across the Estate, Midlands is now providing increased levels of access to services in line with the unwinding of restrictive measures. Release requirements were met, including requirements for release of people convicted of a sexual offence. The BBL programme has resumed face to face meetings within the past month. Psychology Services at Midlands Prison have also been provided with an additional group room to facilitate further engagement. The Irish Prison Service is reviewing its approach to the management of prisoners convicted of sexual violence and the operation of the Building Better Lives Programmes. In this regard, the Irish Prison Service has submitted a business case for the provision of additional resources for the treatment of sexual violence via the 2022 Estimates Process. | Business case submitted as part of Estimates Process | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service have recruited additional resources in line with the partial funding provided. All posts have now been assigned at Staff Grade Psychologist & Senior Psychologist level. The Principal Specialist Psychologist vacancy has been recently filled on an acting up basis. The team across both sites currently consists of a Principal Specialist Psychologist, 1 Senior Psychologist, 2 Senior Psychologist (Sexual Violence), 1 Staff Grade Psychologist and 1 Assistant Psychologist. A review of the programme has been completed, and we have received a draft report with recommendations from Professor Liam Marshall. Following finalisation of the report, it is anticipated that the Psychology Service will develop an implementation plan that will ensure effective and timely engagement. There have already been efforts to screen people for suitability for the BBL programme as soon as possible upon committal. The Psychology Service are currently running a new Consent and Healthy Sexuality group in Arbour Hill for men who have sexually offended. The group is a 6-week education programme exploring the concept of consent, sexual consent and communicating consent. | 28-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service (IPS) is reviewing its approach to the treatment of people convicted of sexual violence with the support of an international expert in the field. This expert has reviewed the Building Better Lives Programme as it currently stands (Feb 2023) and the IPS awaits the outcome of this review. Recruitment of some additional Psychologists to support an increased number people convicted of sexual violence is ongoing with a recruitment campaign scheduled for 29th June 2023. Funding was secured through the Estimates 2022 process but the 2022 recruitment campaign did not witness an increase in staffing for the Building Better Lives Programme. It is anticipated that updated interventions will include risk assessment at an early stage in sentence to inform sentence management and treatment options, working with people who deny and minimise their offence(s), working with people with mental disorders who have been sexually violent, and provision of treatment for people in all risk categories and with shorter sentences. Through personal communication with the expert reviewer, it is anticipated that the review will highlight the need for more senior, experienced staff to work in such a specialist area of psychological intervention. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | As per AHCT16 The Irish Prison Service submitted a business case for additional resources to staff a programme for sexual violence treatment. This would see up to 80% of people convicted of sexual violence engaging in in risk and needs led assessment treatment. The Service was successful in achieving partial funding for this programme and has submitted a business case through the estimates process 2023 for the remaining funding. An advertising campaign for suitable staff closed on 9th August 2022 with interviews in Sept 2022. A procurement process is also underway to secure the support required to make significant changes to the current treatment programme for sexual violence. This will include risk assessment at an early stage in sentence to inform sentence management and treatment options, working with people who deny and minimise their offence(s), working with people with mental disorders who have been sexually violent, and provision of treatment for people in all risk categories and with shorter sentences. | ||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Parole Board | MDCT25 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service put appropriate arrangements in place to ensure that prisoners are able to engage with services required in order to fulfil Parole Board requirements. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | Appropriate arrangements are in place to facilitate engagement with services as required by the Parole Board. These services must be provided in line with current public health guidelines. | Operations | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted and prisoners are in a position to engage with the necessary services in line with Parole Board recommendations. The Irish Prison Service is engaging with the new Parole Board with regard to the management of life sentence prisoner cases under the new Parole Board structures. | |||
| 08/09/2021 | Midlands Prison | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | MDCT26 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan and have regular meetings with the ISM officer per year. Prisoners should be provided with a written copy of their sentence plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 07/10/2021 | The WTO-ISM Coordinator is required to conduct an interview with an ISM-Eligible prisoner within 7 days of committal or transfer to establish the need for referrals to services. The WTO-ISM creates the referrals to the services and invites the services to make recommendations for a sentence plan. The sentence plan is required to be reviewed annually or at intervals determined by the needs of the prisoner. Within 12 months of the remission date the WTO- ISM Coordinator is required to conduct a Community Integration Interview with the prisoner. The Community Integration Interview is then discussed with the prison-based multi-disciplinary team and a plan for preparing for release should be prepared and discussed with the prisoner. A new ICT system has been built and introduced in Summer 2021 to help guide and record activity across this ISM process. This new ICT system provides the ability to print and provide the prisoner with a copy of their multi-disciplinary sentence plan which is called the ‘Personal Implementation Plan’ (PIP). As part of the introductory phase of this new ICT system the WTO-ISM Coordinators have concentrated on completing the initial ISM interviews. Over 700 interviews have been conducted with prisoners in Midlands Prison since 5th July 2021. The WTO-ISM, Governor and prison-based multi-disciplinary team are now moving to the second phase of Personal Implementation Plan (PIP) development for prisoners in Midlands Prison. The phased introduction of the new ISM ICT system is underway across the prison estate and a total of 3140 ISM interviews have been completed with ISM-eligible prisoners and a total of 537 plans commenced or completed between 5 July 2021 and 1 October 2021. These figures do not include prisoners who have been released in the same time period. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | ||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | LHCT1 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Framework for Unwinding of Prison Restrictions. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans relating to family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has completed significant unwinding of prison restrictions in line with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination programme in all prisons. Extensive communication with prisoners is undertaken at all times to raise awareness of changes to restrictive measures. Loughan House management continue to brief prisoners on changes via Governor’s Parade and class officers are available to communicate with prisoner at all times. The Red Cross volunteer prisoners continue to develop information booklets and arrange regular information leaflet cell drops. The Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Newsletter Edition 39 completed with comprehensive information on latest easing of restrictions. Specific Prisoner Information Leaflet on the Physical visits issued to all prisoners | Communications Group | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Food | Meal Scheduling | LHCT2 | In line with the Nelson Mandela Rules (Rule 22.1), and European Prison Rules, (Rule 22.4), the Inspectorate recommends that the scheduling around meal times be amended to ensure meals are served at reasonable intervals and at usual times reflected in the community: breakfast (morning), lunch (midday) and dinner (evening). | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | In 2019, the Irish Prison Service introduced a pilot alteration to the schedule of meal times in Castlerea and Mountjoy Prison (Progression Unit). The purpose was to examine the impact of providing the main daily meal in the evening. The results of the pilot were positive and the IPS decided, in 2019, to roll out this meal schedule to all prisons. The Irish Prison Service has been engaging with the staff representative association with regard to implementing this change across the prison system. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule The Irish Prison Service has reintroduced full prison unlock across all prisons as part of the unwinding of restrictions. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | A review of Prisoner meals was undertaken in 2022/2023. A new prison 28 day menu was rolled out to male prisons in August 2023. A review of the female 28 day menu is due for completion in Q4 2023. An enhanced evening meal is now standard across all male prisons.] | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | An alteration to the prison of the main meal was completed in Castlerea Prison and the Mountjoy Prison Progression Unit. The Irish Prison Service has identified the review of prisoner mealtimes as a priority action in the Public Service Agreement 2021/2022 and continues to engage with the staff representative association in this regard. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with the staff representative association with regard to the alteration of the existing prisoner meal schedule. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Staffing | Chaplaincy | LHCT3 | In line with the UN Mandela Rules (Rule 65 (1)), consideration should be given to a full-time Chaplain, or the additional provision of Chaplaincy hours in Loughan House. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Director General of the Irish Prison Service has approved the undertaking of an independent review of the IPS Chaplaincy Service. The outcome of the review will provide the framework for the future development of the Chaplaincy Service. A draft request for tender has been prepared and we are awaiting relaxation of restrictions so that face to face consultations and prison visits will be permitted. The outcome of the Review will determine changes if any to current Chaplaincy resourcing across the system including the resource requirements for Loughan House, subject to the provision of necessary resources. | Complete Review of Chaplaincy Service provision. | Care and Rehabilitation | (none provided) | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The review of Chaplaincy Service has commenced and due to report in November 2024. This will inform on all matters including staffing requirements. The Irish Prison Service will engage in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, including the Office of the Inspector of Prisons, as part of the review. | 8-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A part time 0.5 Chaplain is in place in Loughan House on a permanent basis. The preferred bidder for the Irish Prison Service chaplaincy review has been selected and contracts documents are expected to be signed during Q2 2023 with a view to commence review in Q3 2023. The reviewer will engage in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, including the Inspector of Prisons as part of this review. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The review of Chaplaincy Service was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Irish Prison Service has commenced the procurement process to procure a suitable service provider to carry out the review. Tender documents are currently being finalised re same. It is hoped to publish the tender on etenders.ie before the end of the year. The Irish Prison Service will engage in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, including the Inspector of Prisons, as part of the review. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Disability | LHCT4 | In line with Article 14(2) of the UNCRPD, Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty and Rule 16 of the Mandela Rules, Loughan House must ensure reasonable accommodations are provided for prisoners with disabilities. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | A programme of small improvements works is ongoing including works to the disabled access shower, consisting of the installation of handrails and a more appropriate shower seat. | Building Services Division | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Environment | General Cleanliness | LHCT5 | In line with the UN Mandela Rules, Rule 17 and the 2020 Revised European Rules, Rule 19.1, Loughan House should ensure that all areas of the prison estate are properly maintained and kept clean at all times. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | Maintenance works are carried out on a continuous basis at Loughan House. Work is ongoing to complete the highlighted repairs. Work to the wheelchair accessible shower, Fire-door (Pine Lodge), Lighting replacement, Computer room cables and door frame have all been completed. | Complete repairs to external wall of Pine Lodge Cleaning and maintenance of gutters on main house | Building Services Division | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | LHCT6 | In line with Article 12 of the ICESCR, the CoE principles of preventive health care, and cognisant of Principle 4 of the Revised European Prison Rules, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service provide a referral pathway to psychology services for prisoners in Loughan House, and consider access to an occupational therapist to support the development of life skills for prisoners as they prepare to reintegrate back into society. | Health & Wellbeing | Under Review | 16/11/2021 | The IPS acknowledges the importance psychological support (mental health) for people in Open Centres. The Irish Prison Service has received additional resources for the provision of Psychology Services in the 2022 Estimates and proposals for the utilisation of these additional resources, including the provision of enhanced Psychology Services for the two Open Centres, are currently being considered. | Plan for the allocation of resources to be agreed | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Services/ Human Resource Directorate | End of Q4 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service sought and received additional resources in the 2022 Estimates process for the appointment of a psychologist (part-time) in both Open centres. A recruitment campaign is underway re same and it is anticipated that appointments will be made to these positions in Q3/Q4 2022 subject to suitable candidates being identified at interview. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Postal Correspondence | Quarantine | LHCT7 | The Irish Prison Service should review the quarantine procedure for incoming packages to ensure it is continuously reviewed on a regular basis, consistent across the prison estate and warranted given public health guidelines; accurate records of incoming packages should also be made and kept. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The period of quarantine for incoming packages has be standardised across the prison estate to 72 hours with effect from 11 October 2021. | Irish Prison Service National Infection Control Team / Covid Liaison Group | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Family Contact | Visits | LHCT8 | In line with Article 8 of the ECHR, Article 9(3) of the UNCRC and in accordance with the CPT principles of necessity and proportionality, the Irish Prison Service should ensure the full return of visits in accordance with Rule 35 of the Prison Rules, 2007 as a matter of priority following the mass vaccination of prisoners, in accordance with public health guidelines in congregated settings. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has announced the further easing of restrictions on physical prison visits with effect from 1 November 2021 with physical visits returning to 30 minutes in all closed prison and to 1 hour in Open centres from that date. All prisoners will be entitled to receive 1 physical visit per fortnight. Up to 3 visitors will be permitted, of which 1 may be a child (U18 years of age). Prisoners will continue to be entitled to receive a video visit per fortnight. | Revised visiting arrangements introduced with effect from 1 November 2021. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | LHCT9 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Services | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | ||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | COVID-19 | Ease of Restrictions | LHCT10 | Considering the unwinding of COVID-19 restrictions in the community, the Principle of Equivalence, and other relevant factors, such as the high vaccination uptake in prisons, the OIP urges the Irish Prison Service to seek further guidance from the Health Service Executive to ease mandatory quarantine periods for prisoners, and consider alternative protective measures, such as use of FFP2 masks and restriction on movements while awaiting a test result. | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The use of quarantine is an essential infection control measure which prevents the outbreak of Covid-19 in the general population. Since the beginning of this pandemic 100 prisoners in quarantine have tested positive for Covid-19. All prisoners are tested on day 7 and if they return a negative test and remaining symptom free they are cleared to join the general population. | The need for quarantining of new committals will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis. | Irish Prison Service National Infection Control Team | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Education | Digital Learning | LHCT11 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 16/11/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. Laptops are provided to prisoners engaging on Open University course. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and has been rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. A review of the TV channel is to be carried out in 2022. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. The Director of Care and Rehabilitation continues to engage with the staff representative association on the introduction of blended learning and progress is anticipated in the immediate future. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Activities / Services | External Engagement | LHCT12 | The loss of community engagement has had a significant impact on Loughan House. The Inspectorate urges Loughan House to consider reintroducing community engagement activities, while adhering to social distancing guidelines. | Rehabilitation & Development | Not Accepted | 16/11/2021 | Due to the current high levels of covid-19 in the community, public access to community projects in Loughan House such as the operation of the Coffee Shop, the Car Wash the polytunnels remains suspended for infection control reasons. This restriction remains under constant review. | Irish Prison Service National Infection Control Team / Covid Liaison Group | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | LHCT13 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, the Irish Prison Service should strengthen, operationalise and apply the Integrated Sentence Management process so that all prisoners are actively engaged and contributing to their sentence and re-integration plan and have regular meetings with the ISM officer per year. Prisoners should be provided with a written copy of their sentence plan. | Resettlement | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Work Training Officer-Integrated Sentence Management Coordinator is available Monday to Friday at Loughan House and operates an open door policy where the prisoner can engage at any time. The WTO-ISM Coordinator is required to conduct an interview with a prisoner on transfer to establish the need for referrals to services. The ISM creates the referrals to the services and invites the services to make recommendations for a sentence plan. The sentence plan is required to be reviewed annually or at intervals determined by the needs of the prisoner. Within 12 months of the remission date the ISM is required to conduct a Community Integration Interview with the prisoner. The Community Integration Interview is then discussed with the prison-based multi-disciplinary team and a plan for preparing for release should be prepared and discussed with the prisoner. A new system has been built and introduced in Summer 2021 to help guide and record activity across this process. This new system provides the ability to print and provide the prisoner with a copy of their plan. This was in its introductory and training phase at the time of the visit by the Inspection Team and the priority was given to interviewing prisoners as step one of the process prior to the planning phase. All prisons are now (October 2021) moving into the plan recording phase of the roll-out of the new system. | The roll-out and training of staff on the use of the new PIMS ISM system continues. The WTO-ISM Coordinator resource moved to a rostered post across closed prisons in 2021. | Care & Rehabilitation | (none provided) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | |
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Temporary Release | LHCT14 | In line with Rule 6 of the European Prison Rules, which states that all detention shall be managed so as to facilitate the reintegration into free society of persons who have been deprived of their liberty, the Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service and Loughan House maximise all opportunities for prisoners to access temporary release. | Resettlement | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has announced the full resumption of all Temporary Release programs with effect from 26 October 2021. A number of factors have impacted the ability to grant Temporary Release during the pandemic, including intercountry travel restrictions, limited quarantine facilities in prisons, public transport restrictions, and access to vaccination for prisoners and prison staff. When previous restrictions were eased the first category of prisoner prioritised was life sentence prisoners where there was a Ministerial approval in place. | Operations | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Temporary release for employment was restored in Q3 2021 in line with the unwinding of COVID-19 restrictions. | |||
| 27/09/2021 | Loughan House | Parole Board | LHCT15 | The Irish Prison Service must ensure that prisoners are able to engage with services required in order to fulfil Parole Board requirements in an open prison. | Resettlement | Accepted | 16/11/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has announced a significant easing of Covid-19 restrictions with effect from 1 November 2021 and this will facilitate greater access prisoner services including return to group and one to one methods of prisoner service delivery. Education and Work and Training activities have returned to full capacity, subject to available resources. Temporary Release programmes and escorted visits for resocialisation purposes have recommenced. | Complete | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | CRCT1 | In line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, the Irish Prison Service must ensure that non-English speaking Foreign National prisoners and people who do not read have equal access to the provision of information, including COVID-19 regime information, in a language and format they can understand. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. The information, which has been designed by prisoners for prisoners, is provided in a clear, easy to read plain English format. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. In additional prisoners are provided with verbal information by prison management on the quarantine process including the timelines and testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. Castlerea Prison provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | COVID-19 | Provision of Framework/ Unwinding Restrictions to Prisoners | CRCT2 | The Irish Prison Service should provide prisoners with a written copy of the Irish Prison Services new framework on the Unwinding of Prison Restrictions. Prisoners should be consulted, and updated on future plans including, family visits, regimes, and sentence progression as COVID-19 restrictions unfold. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has completed significant unwinding of prison restrictions in line with the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination programme in all prisons. Extensive communication with prisoners is undertaken at all times to raise awareness of changes to restrictive measures. Castlerea Prison management continue to brief prisoners on changes via Governor’s Parade and class officers are available to communicate with prisoner at all times. The Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers continue to develop information booklets and arrange regular information leaflet cell drops. The Prisoner TV channel is also updated as the Covid-19 situation evolves. | Newsletter Edition 39 completed with comprehensive information on latest easing of restrictions. Specific Prisoner Information Leaflet on the Physical visits issued to all prisoners | Communications Group | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Prison Service introduced a framework for restrictive measures, (five levels) in line with the Government Framework for living with Covid-19. In 2021 the Service moved to link the unwinding of prison restrictions with the roll out of the covid-19 vaccination. In addition, the Service developed and utilised a Contingency Plan for the Management of Covid-19 Outbreaks which set out the actions to be taken for the management of an outbreak in a prison setting. In 2022, the Service moved to the management of outbreaks using a contact tracing model. The Service is currently developing a new Covid-19 Management Framework centred on the maintenance of services during possible outbreaks and support to mitigate against restrictions should enhanced restrictions be required. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Prisoner Engagement with OIP | Access to Reports | CRCT3 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service make all Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service Communications team will work to identify opportunities to make Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Communications team to engage with colleagues at OIP | Communications/ Press Office | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has agreed a process for the distribution of material with the office of the Inspector of Prison. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Staffing | Chaplaincy | CRCT4 | In line with Rule 66 of the UN Mandela Rules and in line with public health guidelines, akin to the community, in-person religious services should resume in Castlerea Prison. The Irish Prison Service and Castlerea Prison should address the issue of access to a local clergy member to perform weekly in-person religious services. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Religious services resumed in Castlerea Prison on Saturday October 9th and will continue on a weekly basis. All prison churches have been restored to full capacity in line with the most recent Government announcement on the easing of restrictions. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Court | Remote Courts | CRCT5 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with prisoners on the impact of remote court hearings on participation and the right to a fair trial. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Postal Correspondence | Rule 44 | CRCT6 | In line with Rule 44.4 of the Irish Prison Rules, any correspondence sent to a prisoner by their legal adviser should only be opened in the presence of the prisoner. The Inspectorate recommends that Castlerea Prison put in place a system that ensures the opening of Rule 44 letters only occurs in accordance with Rule 44 of the Irish Prison Rules. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | A small number of Rule 44 letters were opened in error due to insufficient demarcation by the sender. The Irish Prison Service has notified the Law Society of this issue and they have agreed to reissue guidance on this to their members. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Environment | Cell Conditions | CRCT7 | In line with Rule 13 and Rule 17 of the UN Mandela Rules and Rule 19 of the Revised European Prison Rules, Castlerea Prison should ensure that any accommodation provided for the use of prisoners, including holding cells, is kept clean at all times and meets all requirements of health, with due regard being paid to climatic conditions, “particularly to cubic content of air, minimum floor space, lighting, heating and ventilation.” | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Cleaners attend holding cells at Castlerea Prison every morning in advance of the cells being occupied. The Irish Prison Service is in the process of introducing new Video link booths which will be located closer to prisoner accommodation and will reduce the need for prisoners to be accommodated in holding cells prior to video link appearances. Castlerea Prison will be in the first phase of video booth installation. | Installation of video link booths in Castlerea Prison | Operations / ICT | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Holding cells are cleaned and maintained on an ongoing basis. An operating framework for Video-Courts is agreed and a project approved to commence use of videopods in a designated area of Castlerea Prison formerly used as a Work Training Workshop. A contractor has been engaged to complete electrical and plumbing works necessary to bring the site into use. | 26-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Installation of video link booths is complete. An operating framework is under development, addressing operational and staffing requirements. It is hoped the framework will be completed by Q4 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Work is ongoing on the installation of new Video link booths in Castlerea Prison. Some minor ICT work remains to be completed including linking the operating of the system to a new visitor booking system. The booths should be fully operational by end of Q4 2022. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | CRCT8 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Castlerea Prison has a bed capacity of 340. The daily average number in custody in 2020 was 297 or an average occupancy level of 87%. The average number in custody in Castlerea in 2021 (to 11/10/2021) is 289 or 85%. In March 2020 the Irish Prison Service took decisive action to reduce the prison population to ensure effective infection control measures. In addition, the Criminal Justice Efficiencies Group has tasked data analysts from across the sector with examining the potential impacts on prison numbers over the next 12 months. | The IPS will continue to review the Prison Population Management Plan and will seek to introduce new measures to address prison overcrowding as necessary. Data analysis on the impact of increased committals to be completed. | Operations Directorate Criminal Justice Efficiencies committee | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Personal Hygiene | Water | CRCT9 | In line with guidance issued by the WHO (2021) Preparedness, prevention and control of COVID-19 in prisons and other places of detention, all prisoners should have availability of sufficient quantities of safe water and handwashing supplies, both of which should be ensured throughout the COVID-19 response and in its aftermath. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Prisoners in general population in Castlerea Prison have daily access to a shower. A system to regulate the volume of water used per cell was installed in the Harristown Unit in Castlerea Prison in 2009. For safety reasons and to prevent the deliberate flooding of cells, a safety mechanism is in place that prevents the continuous flow of water from the sink in certain cells. The components to regulate water in the cells in this Unit are being replaced on expiry and the replacement components, while continuing to regulate the volume of water, will allow for a higher volume of water to be available. | Installation of new water flow components on a fix and replace basis to all cells. | Castlerea Trades Officer/ BSD | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Tracking of this recommendation will not continue as repair and replacement works will continue as a matter of course. | 1-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The new components to regulate the water are being installed on a repair and replace basis. This will continue until all cells are completed. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The new components are being installed as part of ongoing maintenance. Complete replacement will be achieved over time. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Healthcare | Admission | CRCT10 | The Irish Prison Service and Castlerea Prison must ensure full compliance with Rule 11 of the Irish Prison Rules, in which all prisoners are to be seen by a doctor on the day of admission to prison. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has completed a recruitment campaign for prison with a number of new prison doctors joining the Service in 2021. Difficulties have arisen in securing a doctor for appointment to Castlerea Prison however, this remains a priority. The Service intends to run a competition for Castlerea Prison doctor to fill the vacancy that currently exists. In the interim, when a doctor is not available, new committals are given a preliminary medical examination by nursing staff in accordance with Rule 11 (2) of the Prison Rules 2007. | Castlerea Prison Doctor recruitment competition | Care & Rehabilitation/ HR Directorate | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | National Tender published September 2023 seeking Full time GP Service for Castlerea. A 3 year contract has been awarded following a public procurement process. Full time locum service is in place at Castlerea Prison. | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A further recruitment competition for full time IPS Doctor at Castlerea took place in Q1 2023. The successful candidate did not take up the post, and recruitment options are being reviewed. In the interim, a full time locum GP service is available to Castlerea. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Competitions for the appointment of a full time Doctor for Castlerea Prison have been unsuccessful. Alternative options for provision of the service are under consideration. GP services are being provided in the prison via a locum. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Staffing | Healthcare | CRCT11 | The healthcare team composition should be provided with adequate resources to ensure preventive and continuous healthcare is provided to prisoners in the care of Castlerea Prison | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | See response to CRCT 10. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | National Tender published September 2023 seeking Full time GP Service for Castlerea. A 3 year contract has been awarded following a public procurement process. Full time locum service is in place at Castlerea Prison. | 7-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | A further recruitment competition for full time IPS Doctor at Castlerea took place in Q1 2023. The successful candidate did not take up the post, and recruitment options are being reviewed. In the interim, a full time locum GP service is available to Castlerea. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Competitions for the appointment of a full time Doctor for Castlerea Prison have been unsuccessful. Alternative options for provision of the service are under consideration. GP services are being provided in the prison via a locum. | ||||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Postal Correspondence | Quarantine | CRCT12 | The Irish Prison Service should review the quarantine procedure for incoming packages to ensure it is continuously reviewed on a regular basis, consistent across the prison estate and warranted given public health guidelines; accurate records of incoming packages should also be made and kept. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The period of quarantine for incoming packages has been standardised across the prison estate to 72 hours with effect from 11 October 2021. | Irish Prison Service National Infection Control Team / Covid Liaison Group | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Postal Correspondence | Photocopying | CRCT13 | The Irish Prison Service should develop a clear policy on the photocopying of post. This policy should apply key principles (e.g., proportionality, necessity, review and the recording of reasons for its justification) and balance the rights of prisoners against security concerns. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The operation of the Communications Office, which manages incoming and outgoing post, can be impacted by resourcing issues including the need to resource Court escorts. Every effort is made by management to ensure the Communications Office is resourced on a daily basis and to ensure that delays to the issuing of mail are minimised. For security reasons incoming post is photocopied to prevent access to illicit substances via impregnated paper. A new screening device has been provided to Castlerea prison which will allow for the swabbing of all incoming post. This will reduce the requirement for the photocopying of incoming mail. The Operations Directorate are developing a national policy around scanning and photocopying of post. | Operations Directorate | Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | All post being received is now subject to scanning for illicit substances thus eliminating the requirement for photocopying. The Censor post is prioritised in Castlerea Prison to ensure incoming and outgoing mail is deal with in a timely manner. | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Family Contact | Visits | CRCT14 | In line with Article 8 of the ECHR, Article 9(3) of the UNCRC and in accordance with the CPT principles of necessity and proportionality, the Irish Prison Service should ensure the full return of visits in accordance with Rule 35 of the Prison Rules, 2007 as a matter of priority following the mass vaccination of prisoners, in accordance with public health guidelines in congregated settings. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has announced the further easing of restrictions on physical prison visits with effect from 1 November 2021 with physical visits returning to 30 minutes in all locations from that date. All prisoners will be entitled to receive 1 physical visit per fortnight. Up to 3 visitors will be permitted, of which 1 may be a child (U18 years of age). Prisoners will continue to be entitled to receive a video visit per fortnight. | Revised visiting arrangements introduced with effect from 1 November 2021. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | COVID-19 | Ease of Restrictions | CRCT15 | Considering the unwinding of COVID-19 restrictions in the community, the Principle of Equivalence, and other relevant factors, such as the high vaccination uptake in prisons, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to seek further guidance from the Health Service Executive to ease mandatory quarantine periods for prisoners, and consider alternative protective measures, such as use of FFP2 masks and restriction on movements while awaiting a test result | Health & Wellbeing | Not Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The use of quarantine is an essential infection control measure which prevents the outbreak of Covid-19 in the general population. Since the beginning of this pandemic 100 prisoners in quarantine have tested positive for Covid-19. All prisoners are tested on day 7 and if they return a negative test and remaining symptom free they are cleared to join the general population. | Irish Prison Service National Infection Control Team | Not accepted | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | CRCT16 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | Care and Rehabilitation; Psychology Services | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Activities / Services | Access | CRCT17 | Castlerea Prison should consider maximising the capacity of activities and services in the prison so that all prisoners have an opportunity to engage, in accordance with social distancing guidelines. In doing so, particular attention should be made to ensuring prisoners are not adversely impacted should they decide not to engage in activities. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Infection control restrictions have been lifted in all prisons (except Cloverhill Prison) to restore prisoner services to full capacity. Prison gyms, yards and indoor recreation have been restored. | Restrictions lifted with effect from 1 November 2021 | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Education | Digital Learning | CRCT18 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells. Laptops are provided to prisoners engaging on Open University course. A new prisoner TV Channel has been developed and is being rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. A review of the TV channel is to be carried out in 2022. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and will provide accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning. | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. Director of Care and Rehabilitation continues to engage with the staff representative association on the introduction of blended learning and progress is anticipated in the immediate future. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2021 Q4 2021 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Environment | Green Space | CRCT19 | The Inspectorate recommends that efforts be made to include green spaces in and around the main prison yards. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 08/12/2021 | Consideration will be given to enhancing the aesthetics of the prison yards. Security considerations will be taken into account when considering any enhancement to the prison yards. | Prison Management; Finance & Estates Directorate | End 2021 | NA | NA | NA | 6-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS has commenced a program of yards upgrades including the installation of graphic packages to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards. Works have been completed in Cork Prison and the Training Unit. A tender is under way for a graphics package for Castlerea and Cloverhill with works to be completed in both locations before the end of Q4. Additional works are planned for the Portlaoise A Yard, Cloverhill B Yard and new Unit based yards in Wheatfield, and graphic packages will be included in these works. It is hoped to complete works in Portlaoise in Q4 2023 with works in Wheatfield and Cloverhill progressing in the first half of 2024. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service intends to enhance the aesthetics of prison yards through its ongoing maintenance programme. Enhancement to prison yards will be subject to security considerations which are paramount. | ||
| 08/10/2021 | Castlerea Prison | Parole Board | CRCT20 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service put appropriate arrangements in place to ensure that prisoners are able to engage with services required in order to fulfil Parole Board requirements. | Resettlement | Accepted | 08/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service has announced a significant easing of Covid-19 restrictions with effect from 1 November 2021 resulting in greater access to prisoner services including return to group and one to one methods of prisoner service delivery. Education and Work and Training activities have been returned to full capacity (subject to available resources). Temporary Release programmes and escorted visits for resocialisation purposes have recommenced. | Operations | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | COVID-19 | Isolation/Quarantine Information | DOCT1 | In line with Rule 54 of the Nelson Mandela Rules, the Dóchas Centre and the Irish Prison Service should ensure that written and oral information about the process of quarantine is provided to prisoners on an ongoing basis. This information should be designed to assist prisoners in adapting to quarantine, and should clearly outline what they can expect while in quarantine. The information should be provided in a language and form that can be understood by the prisoner; this may require the assistance of interpreters. Prisoners should be provided with ongoing opportunities to raise questions and to be informed of all matters necessary to adapt to quarantine and prison life in general. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service provides a comprehensive Prisoner Information Book to all new committals to prison. The Book is printed in several languages and gives basic information about regimes and services within prisons. A bespoke booklet titled “Covid-19 – Living in Cell” was developed by the Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers to provide detailed information to prisoners on isolation/quarantine and gives specific information on the Covid-19 testing process. The information, which has been designed by prisoners for prisoners, is provided in a clear, easy to read plain English format. This information booklet has been translated into several languages. In addition prisoners are provided with verbal information by prison management on the quarantine process including the timelines and testing process. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to provide translations of information provided. Dóchas Centre management provides a verbal briefing to new committals and prisoners going on temporary release. Additional information is provided by medical and discipline teams when the committal is moved to the quarantine area. | Care and Rehabilitation Prison Management | In place and will be reviewed and augmented on an ongoing basis | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A ‘Living in Cell’ booklet has been provided throughout the covid-19 pandemic and has been updated on a number of occasions to reflect latest procedures. The booklet is circulated via the Covid-19 prison liaisons group. The document is developed in collaboration with the Prison Red Cross Volunteers and is approved by NALA. A new recording studio has been introduced in Loughan House and it is proposed that future communications will be broadcast via the Prisoner TV Channel. The Service continues to provide a comprehensive Prisoner Information Booklet to all new committals which is available in up to 7 different languages. | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Prisoner Engagement with OIP | Access to Reports | DOCT2 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service and the Dóchas Centre make all Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service Communications team will work to identify opportunities to make Office of the Inspector of Prisons’ materials and reports readily available and accessible to all prisoners. | Communications team to engage with colleagues at Office of Inspector of Prisons | Communications/ Press Office | End Q4 2021 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has agreed a process for the distribution of material with the Office of the Inspector of Prison. | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Information | Access | DOCT3 | The Dóchas Centre should update its general information leaflets provided to women in custody and in line with Section 42 of the Public Sector Duty, these leaflets should be made available in other languages and in accessible formats. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | Arrangements are being made to have all material updated as per the recommendation. | Information leaflets to be reviewed and updated | Chief Officer | End Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Information Booklet is complete and will be printed following resumption of printing services at Arbour Hill. The translation of the booklet has not commenced but will be translated into 8 different languages as before. | 26-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The IPS committal information booklet is currently being updated and should be completed and published in Q3 2023. Currently the Dóchas Centre is issuing an information sheet to prisoners on arrival. A new Dóchas specific booklet is nearing completion and this is being designed by the women of the Dóchas for the women of the Dóchas in collaboration with the local Red Cross group, local services and the management team. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Prison management has reviewed the material provided. Work has been ongoing on creating information videos which are developed by the prisoners for broadcast on the prison TV channel. | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Food | Meal Options | DOCT4 | In line with Rule 23 (1) of the Prison Rules, 2007 and Rule 22 of the UN Mandela Rules, the Dóchas Centre should consider feedback provided by women in custody and review in consultation with the women key aspects of food provision such as quality, portion size, and choice. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Dóchas Prison kitchen had a recent external audit where it achieved an 80% satisfaction rating. The Irish Prison Service operates a 28 day menu which has been adapted to meet the dietary needs of those requiring different diets. The 28 Day Menu has been reviewed by an independent nutritionist to assure nutritional quality and suitability. These are driven by the general requirement for the average person to consume 2000-2500 calories per day. A review of the current 28 day menu is to commence in Q1 2022 to include introducing a specific menu for female prisoners in both the Dóchas Centre and Limerick Prison. It is expected that the review will be completed in Q3 2022. Dóchas management intend to reestablish the Dóchas Centre Prisoner council to enhance two way communication with prisoners. | Complete Review of 28 Day Menu to include female specific menu. Re-establishment of prisoner council | Care and Rehabilitation Dóchas Assistant Governor | Q3 2022 Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | 13-Feb-23 | IPS - Complete | A Steering Committee gave oversight to the review process. A sub-committee comprising 2 members from Care & Rehabilitation and 2 members from the Staff representative association carried out the review in 2022 by visiting 4 prisons; Castlerea Prison, Cork Prison, Wheatfield and the Progression Unit. The review was limited to reviewing the practicality of changes to the scheduling of the main daily meal, no changes are being proposed to the serving times or intervals between meals in prisons. The following were the recommendations from the review accepted by the steering Committee: 1. Revision and modernising of menu 2. Standardisation of the serving times across all prisons in line with standard prison day to maximise access to prisoner services. Prisoners will remain in their morning structured activity until at least 12:15pm and in the afternoon until at least 4:15pm. 3. Provide enhanced tea/evening meal offering 4. Increase range of menu options for special dietary requirements. 5. Provide only a small range of menu alternatives. 6. Strict adherence to menu and alternatives. 7. Provision of amended menu options for female prisoners The work of drawing up the menu and testing dishes is underway and expected to complete in early April 2023. The new menu is expected to be complete and ready for implementation in Q3 2023. A new 28 day menu is being introduced across the Prisons. The female-specific equivalent of this menu programme will be implemented by Q4 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | A review of the 28 day menu is being considered in the context of the change to the meal time structure. The review of the menu will commence in September 2022 and consideration is to be given to specific menus for female offenders as recommended. | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Prisoner Accounts | Tuck Shop | DOCT5 | The Irish Prison Service should ensure that procured Tuck Shop items are marked at a price that is affordable to prisoners, and should consider assessing the daily gratuity rates received by prisoners to ensure they are able to purchase items in the Tuck Shop at a reasonable price. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service revised the pricing structure in prison tuck shops which has ensured that all items (excluding tobacco products) for sale in the Tuck Shop are sold at cost price (+5%). This has realised significant reductions in the cost price for prisoners and increased significantly their purchasing ability. This has also negated the need to seek an increase in the prisoner gratuity rates. Finance Directorate has written to prison management in all prisons reminding them of the need to have price lists available for prisoners and this communication will be re-issued. | Re-issue of communication from Finance Directorate | Completed Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Court | Remote Courts | DOCT6 | Taking into consideration Article 6 of the ECHR and Article 14 (3) of the ICCPR, the Irish Prison Service should continuously monitor and engage with prisoners on the impact of remote court hearings on participation and the right to a fair trial. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allows for certain type of court hearings to be heard by video link. This includes arraignments, returns for trial, sentencing hearings and certain hearings in relation to surrender proceedings for extradition. While video link is not the default, the Act gives this authority to the Courts allowing them to make certain proceeding of their choosing by default. This authority is vested firstly in the Presidents of the Courts and subsequently in the Judges themselves. The Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service are working to increase the capacity of video link. Infection control measures introduced during Covid-19 have resulted in the widespread use of video link for Court appearances. Approximately 60% of Court appearances are now taking place via video link. The use of video link will allow the Service to redirect vital resources into the provision of prisoner services. | The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. | Operations | Reviewed on an ongoing basis | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The expansion of videolink services continues as outlined in the previous update. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Courts Service both on a strategic and operational level to identify appropriate usage of videolink that will increase efficiencies for the Irish Prison Service and the Courts Service whilst retaining focus on prisoners' participation and right to a fair trial. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to take steps to enhance physical and ICT facilities to support the use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with Court Services as necessary to continuously improve the operation of video-courts to ensure that the rights of prisoners are upheld. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for prisoner engagement with therapeutic and other support services. All opportunities to use video-link to the benefit of prisoners are reviewed on an ongoing basis. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service continues to enhance the physical infrastructure to support enhanced use of video link for prisoner attendance at Court. The Irish Prison Service will continue to engage with Court Services as necessary. The Irish Prison Service will continue to explore the use of video link for the provision of other services such as Probation interviews, prisoner case conferences, education and remote learning. Reviewed on an ongoing basis | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Personal Hygiene | Menstruation Products | DOCT7 | In line with international human rights standards, the Dóchas Centre and the Irish Prison Service should take positive measures to respect the dignity of women by ensuring that all women have access to gender-specific and period products. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | Sanitary products are readily available for women in the Dóchas centre. A number of supply related issues did arise earlier this year and these have been rectified. A new process for the ordering of sanitary products has been put in place by Dóchas Centre management and any person requiring sanitary products can access same through the Red Cross Volunteer Group. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Staff Training | Gender | DOCT8 | In line with Rule 81.3 of the Revised European Prison Rules, all prison staff should be required to undertake comprehensive and continuous gender-specific training; this training should be developed in consultation with stakeholders working in the areas of gender, sexual and gender-based violence and deprivation of liberty. | Respect & Dignity | Part Accepted | 22/12/2021 | All Recruit Prison Officers receive training specific to working with women in prisons. The specific learning objectives are 1. To work effectively with Women in Custody in compliance with the United Nations Rules for the Treatment of Women Prisoners(the Bangkok Rules 2010), and 2: Effectively comply with the gender specific needs and rights of women prisoners. The delivery of this training to other staff was hampered by the Covid-19 restrictions. However, this delivery of this training will be extended to all staff responsible for the management of female offenders in both the Dóchas Centre and Limerick Prison, once the Covid-19 restrictions on face to face training have been lifted in 2022. | Provision of training programme to all staff working with female offenders | 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Senior Psychologists in Dóchas Centre and Limerick Female Prison have contributed to bespoke prison officer training to support their work with women in custody. A training programme commenced in March 2024 with a second day scheduled in Q3 2024. | 6-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | Senior Psychologists in Dóchas Centre and Limerick Female Prison have contributed to bespoke prison officer training to support their work with women in custody. A plan is also underway in relation to the development of e-learning for existing staff. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The resources and structures to support the delivery of this training via the new IPS eLearning Portal have recently been put in place. It is anticipated that this training will be offered to all appropriate staff via the eLearning Portal in Q4 2022. | ||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Transgender Prisoners | Policy | DOCT9 | In line with Yogyakarta Principle 9 on the Right to Treatment with Humanity while in Detention, the Inspectorate urges the Irish Prison Service to develop, in partnership with relevant civil society organisations, transgender people in prison and other relevant stakeholders, a national policy regarding the safe custody of transgender women and men. | Respect & Dignity | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is working on the development of a national Transgender Prisoner Policy regarding the safe custody of transgender women and men. The Irish Prison Service Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead is engaging with the relevant stakeholders including civil society organisations and transgender people in prison in this regard. The Irish Prison Service has engaged with the Transgender Equality Network Ireland in this regard, however there are other civil society organisations and stakeholders to be consulted. Policies from other jurisdictions have been reviewed also. It is intended to run a formal consultative process to ensure that all stakeholder views are taken into account. | Development of Transgender Prisoner Policy Formal consultation phase to be completed | Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead | End Q2 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service policy for the safe custody of transgender women and men is still in development. Engagement with relevant stakeholders continues. | 9-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service has engaged with relevant stakeholders and hopes to finalise a transgender policy in Q3 2023. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service has commenced engagement with appropriate stakeholders with regard to the development of a Transgender prisoner policy. This includes engagement with both statutory and non-statutory bodies. The Irish Prison Service is also conducting international research into the issue to help inform proposed policy development. It is anticipated that a draft discussion paper will be completed by the end of Q3 2022. The Irish Prison Service is also conducting a review of the Prison Rule with regard to the searching of prisoners to provide clarity on the searching procedures for transgender prisoners. It is proposed to bring forward an amendment to this rule in advance of the full review of Prison Rules which are not expected until 2023/2024 at the earliest. - IPS Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead Q3/Q4 2022 | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Staffing | Availability | DOCT10 | In line with the European Prison Rules, Rule 83(a), the Irish Prison Service must ensure that Mountjoy Women’s Prison - Dóchas Centre Senior Management roles are adequately and consistently staffed. This means there should not be extensive periods of time in which Senior Management positions are not attended in the prison, and that Mountjoy Prison Campus Senior Management staff should be supported to ensure the Dóchas Centre staffing is at a level to ensure a safe and secure environment. | Safety & Security | Part Accepted | 22/12/2021 | Mountjoy Female Prison has an identified number of resources required with no vacant posts existing at management grades. Incidental absences occur on occasion and the prison is supported by the Human Resource Directorate in filling these posts through agreed processes and within the parameters of the relevant Civil Service provisions. In addition, each prison has in place a Regime Management Plan to ensure safe systems of working. It should also be noted that there is no Mountjoy campus structure in law or on an administrative basis. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Staffing | Gender Composition | DOCT11 | In line with the CPT Standards on Women in Prison, the Inspectorate recommends that consideration be made to the gender of staff working in high contact/supervision posts in the Dóchas Centre. In the event that male staff are allocated to these positions, they should be provided with the tools they need to ensure safe and secure interactions with women in custody. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Human Resources Directorate has at the request of Dóchas management reviewed the number of female Officers available to conduct specific tasks associated with the direct supervision of prisoners. The Human Resources Directorate, having consideration to the tasks which are primarily associated with Section 27(1)(1) a of the Employment Equality Act, 1998 have, since 2018, reconfigured the ratio of male to female Officers at Dóchas. To achieve this, the Human Resources Directorate has applied the Employment Equality Act 1998 to ensure that appropriate resources are available to Dóchas within grades which routinely conduct direct supervision of female prisoners. In 2017 there were 46 female Officers and 14 male Officers in the PO/RPO grade, this has changed to 56 female Officers and 11 male Officers at end 2021. The allocation of resources at the grade of Prison Officer remain under constant review by the HR Workforce Planning Team. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Overcrowding | Reduce Population | DOCT12 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Irish Prison Service engages with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. The reduction in prison numbers reduces the number of people cell-sharing, minimises the risk of COVID-19 transmission, and enables prisoners to practice social distancing. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | Mountjoy Female Prison has a bed capacity of 146. The daily average number in custody in 2020 was 128 or an average occupancy level of 88%. The average number in custody in Mountjoy Female in 2021 (to 11/12/2021) is 117 or 80%. The Irish Prison Service is continuing to engage with the Department of Justice on a Review of Penal Policy which will include actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Acknowledging that control of the prison population is not within the remit of the Irish Prison Service, the Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Department of Justice to maximise all opportunities available for reducing the prison population. Additional accommodation has opened for both male and female prisoners at Limerick Prison, temporary release is utilised as appropriate, and opportunities for further expansion of the prison estate are being identified for the Capital estimates process on an ongoing basis. | 13-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has approved amendments proposed by IPS to the Community Return Scheme and Community Support Scheme to allow for prisoners to be considered for both schemes at an earlier stage of their sentence. It should be noted that prison Governors are required by law to accept all prisoners into their custody who have been committed to prison by the Courts. The Irish Prison Service therefore has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Minister for Justice has published the Review of Penal Policy which includes actions to reduce reoffending and incorporate the principle of imprisonment as a last resort. The Training Unit has reopened in July 2022 providing an additional 96 prisoner spaces. An additional 90 male spaces and 22 female spaces are due to come on stream in late Q4 2022/Q1 2023 with the opening of new prisoner accommodation in Limerick Prison for male and female prisoners. (Subject to the availability of staffing resources). | ||||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Inter-Prisoner Treatment | Bullying | DOCT13 | In line with Rule 49 of the European Prison Rules, the Dóchas Centre and the Irish Prison Service should develop a plan to address bullying in the prison. Robust governance (the consistent filling of senior staffing vacancies) and leadership, in tandem with the establishment of a prisoner council and increased access to structured and purposeful activities may prove effective strategies by which to address these issues. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | No level of bullying or intimidation is accepted by prison management and any instance of bullying is dealt with through the Prisoner Disciplinary System (P19). Dóchas Centre Management intends to run an anti-bullying campaign in 2022 in conjunction with the Red Cross Volunteers. | Peer led anti-bulling campaign to be run by Red Cross Volunteers | Prison management/Red Cross Volunteers | Q1 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Senior Psychologists in Dóchas Centre and Limerick Female Prison have contributed to bespoke prison officer training to support their work with women in custody. A training programme is being rolled out. A plan is also underway in relation to the development of e-learning for existing staff. | 28-Jun-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Dóchas has introduce a number of programme to assist in tackling complaints of bullying between prisoners. AVP Ongoing courses The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) Ireland is a community of volunteers inside and outside prisons who run peer led experiential workshops in conflict resolution and restorative practices. The training is run by a mixed team of community and prison-based facilitators. It focuses on skills to build healthy relationships and to deal with conflicts in a nonviolent way. It consists in four levels of workshops for men and up to recently only three for women. It has been active in Irish prisons since 1994. A 3rd level ‘Male Awareness’ has been run in men's prisons for several years. Feedback is often amazingly positive and participants talk about ‘a life changing experience’. The workshop shines a light on very deep beliefs around masculinity and gives an opportunity to participants to choose who they truly want to be, beyond the social construct of gender. Women did not have the opportunity for a similar experience. All AVP workshops were not even specifically designed with women in mind. In June, in the Dóchas Centre, was piloted the first ever 3rd level ‘Female Awareness’ workshop in AVP history. It was developed by a team of AVP Ireland facilitators and it is a reflection of Irish AVPers’ creativity, commitment and perseverance. The workshop explores the reality of the social construct of womanhood in Irish society, to create awareness of the stereotypes and expectations for women in a patriarchal system. It’s also an empowering process where participants realise the power, rank and privilege women have access to, and can use for the common good. The feedback from the pilot workshop was extremely positive. 14 women took part, 9 participants and 4 facilitators. They reported it was a fantastic learning experience. The workshop will be reviewed and improved from the experience of the pilot and from now on, will be regularly run in women prisons. STEPS Programme Three courses to be run this year commencing July Supporting the Personal Development of Prisoners The STEPS® programme is The Pacific Institute’s® (TPI) highly renowned personal development programme for individuals and communities. The programme delivered at prisons has been tailored to meet the demand for practical and applicable educational material to assist prisoners who are trying to change their situation by examining habits, attitudes & behaviours that are working for them and, importantly, identifying and addressing ineffective habits, attitudes and behaviours. STEPS® stimulates increased participation in and ownership of one’s own personal development. It provides tools for effective goal setting, tools to raise self-esteem levels and the know-how to create a ‘can do’ attitude, often in the face of deep-seated beliefs that nothing can change. STEPS® has seen great success when delivered in Dóchas Centre in the past in shifting this type of mind-set and the feedback from the women in Dóchas, and from those who work with them inside, has shown that that the women who engage with the programme & the material begin to make changes to their lives. STEPS® confronts the beliefs that limit achievement, helping participants to build a stronger sense of self and an expanded sense of potential and possibility. The programme enables individuals to move beyond where they have become stuck, to live more fulfilling and successful lives. Freedom programme A rolling eleven week programme to commence with staff training in July The Freedom Program is a 11–12-week program that identifies behaviors and traits of domestic abuse in intimate partner or familial relationships. The program is designed to support women to understand the complexities of abuse and identify patterns and responses to reduce the impact of Domestic abuse. The Program encourages and supports women to work through their experiences of Domestic Abuse in a supportive peer led program. We explore safety and recovery using a dialogical and collaborative approach supporting women understand recovery pathways and ultimately freedom from Domestic Abuse. Each week the program looks at the various impacts of different types of abuse, such as Emotional abuse , Financial abuse, Sexual abuse, Parenting etc... participants are invited to look at both "The Dominator" and "Mr./Ms. Right". This provides women educationally informed decision-making process for future partners and safety planning while in abuse situations. In Aoibhneas we believe that education informs choice and choice informs change and both can ultimately lead to freedom from Domestic abuse. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | Prison management are rolling out an anti-bullying campaign - including the development of content for the prison TV channel. The campaign will be management and peer led. (Q3 2022) | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Restricted Regime | Record-Keeping | DOCT14 | The Inspectorate recommends that the Dóchas Centre ensure that removal of any person from the general population is done in accordance with the Irish Prison Rules, 2007-2020, and that any such removal is subject to continuous and substantial review. All persons who are to be removed from the general prison population should be clearly identified on the ‘Special Feature’ list, irrespective of where in the prison they are being accommodated. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Healthcare Unit is used by prison management for the accommodation of committals on their first night. Once seen by the doctor and Governor they are moved to Laurel House. Special Observation Cells are also located in this area. Women are sometimes accommodated in the Healthcare Unit on the instruction of the Chief Nurse Officer for healthcare reasons, these would be persons requiring medical supervision or have mental health issues and who could not mix in general population. The rules relating to the removal of prisoners from general population including Rule 62 and Rule 63 are to be reviewed as part of the ongoing Irish Prison Service Review of Prison Rules. In the interim, the Irish Prison Service will conduct a review of the operation of the Healthcare/Committal area including the application of the Monitoring of Prisoners Policy and associated Standard Operating Procedures to ensure compliance with the relevant procedures. | Review to area to be completed | Operations/ Care and Rehabilitation. | Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | Operations Directorate carried out a review of the Healthcare/Committal area in Q2 2022 with a view to addressing the issues raised. A number of procedural actions have been identified and are being actioned with local management. This includes: Clear identification of the cells as Special Observation Cells, Awareness session by prison management for staff on the process and procedures of Special Observations Cells and the need for compliance with SOPs. The re-issuing by prison management of all SOPS to the appropriate staff to raise awareness and drive enhanced compliance with same. A review of Rule 62 extensions to ensure compliance with Ops circular 01/2020 | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Restricted Regime | Review Process | DOCT15 | The Inspectorate recommends that all materials related to the Rule 62 review process be recorded, readily available, legible and of sufficient rigour to illustrate the decision-making process behind extensions of Rule 62 directions. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The operation of the Rule 62 process in the Dóchas Centre, including the recording of same, will be considered in the review mentioned in response to DOCT 14. | Operations Directorate | Q1 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | (Same as DOCT14) Operations Directorate carried out a review of the Healthcare/Committal area in Q2 2022 with a view to addressing the issues raised. A number of procedural actions have been identified and are being actioned with local management. This includes: Clear identification of the cells as Special Observation Cells. Awareness session by prison management for staff on the process and procedures of Special Observations Cells and the need for compliance with SOPs. The re-issuing by prison management of all SOPS to the appropriate staff to raise awareness and drive enhanced compliance with same. A review of Rule 62 extensions to ensure compliance with Ops circular 01/2020. | ||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | COVID-19 | Vaccination | DOCT16 | Given the increase in COVID-19 cases in prisons in Ireland and the risk that prison settings pose to the transmissibility of the virus, the Inspectorate recommends the Irish Prison Service take all measures possible to advocate for the prioritisation of administration of booster COVID-19 vaccinations for people in prisons. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The provision of the Covid-19 booster vaccination is being administered in line with the Government programme for same. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the HSE/Public Health with regard to access to the booster vaccine for all prisoners and staff. | Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | NA | 13-Feb-23 | IPS - Ongoing | The Dóchas Centre medical team are proactive in arranging clinics, be they HSE provided or provided by IPS to administer booster vaccines in accordance with HSE national guidance. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | A bespoke Prison Vaccination Programme was introduced in April 2021 resulting in over 80% of prisoners being vaccinated; the highest prisoner vaccination rate in Europe. The Irish Prison Service continues to engage with the Health Authorities regarding the provision of vaccines including the booster vaccine. On 9 June 2022 almost 2,000 booster vaccines had been administered and over 9,000 vaccinations have been administered in total. | ||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Family Contact | Visits | DOCT17 | In line with Rule 35 of the Prison Rules, 2007, the Irish Prison Service and Dóchas Centre should consult with the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) on the safe return of in-person visits to include at a minimum, a duration of 30 minute visits, on a weekly basis and the removal of the one-child visitation restriction. | Health & Wellbeing | Part Accepted | 22/12/2021 | Physical prison visits have returned to almost pre-pandemic levels across the entire prison system. The Irish Prison Service has returned all physical visits to 30 minutes duration in all closed prisons with effect from 1 November 2021. All prisoners are entitled to receive 1 physical visit per fortnight. Up to 3 visitors are permitted, of which 1 may be a child (U18 years of age). Prisoners continue to be entitled to receive a video visit per fortnight. All restrictions are continuously reviewed and are removed when safe to do so. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | COVID-19 | Mental Healthcare | DOCT18 | Measures must be taken to mitigate the detrimental effects of isolation or quarantine, including psychological support during and after quarantine/isolation in order to assist prisoners in coping with the impact of COVID-19 and subsequently imposed restrictive measures. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. The approach incorporates a three-tiered layered care model which includes preventative, enhanced and acute mental health care interventions. This includes the use of tablets to proactively engage people on significantly restrictive measures, where required. | Care and Rehabilitation/ Psychology Service | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | A Covid outbreak-specific mental health protocol has been put in place by the IPS Psychology Service. | ||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Education | Digital Learning | DOCT19 | To meet the education needs of prisoners (European Prison Rule 28.1), which include facilitating more substantive engagement with education (and other services), the Irish Prison Service should make digital tablets available for prisoner use. These digital tablets could be pre-loaded with education materials. | Rehabilitation & Development | Under Review | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service is developing an in-cell learning strategy to enhance learning from prison cells and continues to engage with the relevant stakeholders in this regard. Laptops are provided to prisoners engaging on Open University course. A new prisoner in cell TV Information Channel has been rolled out across the estate. This allows for the broadcasting of local and national information and for the provision of educational material. A review of the in cell TV Information channel will be carried out in 2022 and facilitating education provision is a key priority of this review. CDETB have developed a substantial quantity of audio-visual course materials to be viewed on the TV channel and accompanying supporting hard copy documentation to facilitate blended learning | A large volume of in-cell audio-visual and printed material has now been produced by the ETBs. Director of Care and Rehabilitation continues to engage with the staff representative association on the introduction of blended learning and progress is anticipated into 2022 | Care and Rehabilitation | Q2 2022 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | 2-Mar-23 | IPS - Ongoing | In-cell TV information channel was developed in 2022 with educational content in place in all prisons. Specific in-cell blended learning is in place in Dublin prisons. The Building Bridges Project in late 2022 prioritised €500,000 SOLAS allocated funding. ETBs included Cork ETB, Limerick Clare ETB, Laois Offaly ETB and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB). Funding was primarily expended on technological enhancements in the prison schools for the teaching of prisoners engaging in education. The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has allocated further funding of €5m in 2023. The project will be expanded to include all seven ETBs. | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is reviewing the enhanced use of technology to facilitate in-cell learning. A new Prisoner TV Channel has been introduced and is supporting in-cell learning. The Service is engaging with other prison services who have enhanced use of in-cell technology with a view to enhancing in-cell learning and service provision. This action remains under review. | |
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Activities / Services | Access | DOCT20 | In line with Rule 25.1 of the Revised European Prison Rules, the Inspectorate urges the Dóchas Centre and the Irish Prison Service to consider all possible measures to ensure that women in custody have access to a full and varied regime. The Dóchas Centre should ensure equitable access to meaningful activities for all women; not by reduction in access to activities for any prisoner, but instead by determining ways to increase the time spent in meaningful activity for prisoners currently receiving less time. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | All women in the Dóchas Centre have equal access to the same level of regime including access to education, training and employment. From time to time there may be restricted regime prisoners (including those on protection) who may not be able to freely associate with other prisoners and as such they are supplied learning packs from the school. | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 29/11/2021 | Dóchas Centre | Integrated Sentence Management | Resources | DOCT21 | In line with the Mandela Rules and the European Prison Rules, and the need to strengthen, operationalise and apply the Integrated Sentence Management process, ISM officers should be provided with laptops so that they may more readily engage in regular meetings with prisoners. | Resettlement | Accepted | 22/12/2021 | The Irish Prison Service included in its Strategic Plan 2019 – 2022 a commitment to enhance and support the role of the ISM Coordinator to achieve the goal of personal sentence management plans. In July 2021, the Irish Prison Service introduced a new IT development which allows for the central recording of Integrated Sentence Management Coordinator interviews with prisoners and a standardised space to record the prisoner’s Personal Implementation Plan devised in consultation with the prison-based multi-disciplinary team. In 2021, the Irish Prison Service also increased the number of hours dedicated to the ISM Coordinator role by moving the role to a rostered position to enhance and support the implementation of Integrated Sentence Management. There is a plan underway to increase the efficiency and capacity of existing WTO-ISM Coordinators by enabling them to operate using mobile devices and additional funding was provided in Estimates 2022 for this purpose. There is a requirement for ICT Directorate to sufficiently cable all locations with Wi-Fi capability before the WTO-ISM work can be conducted on a mobile basis. A cabling survey is underway which will inform Care and Rehabilitation in 2022 when use of mobile devices with ISMs can commence. | Installation of enabling works to facilitate the operation of mobile devices. | End Q2 2022 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | 01/09/2022 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service secured funding in the 2022 Estimates process to facilitate the purchase of Tablet computers for use by ISM co-ordinators. Enabling works are required out to facilitate the necessary technical access to support same and work is underway in this regard. It is hoped that the necessary enabling work will be completed when technical components have been delivered and are installed. Delivery has been delayed due to global supply chain issues however it is anticipated that the necessary components will be delivered in November at which point enabling works will be progressed. | ||
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | IPS Data | HQEDWT1 | A centralised and integrated data recording system should be put in place to accurately identify, track and report on engagement with purposeful activity. This data should be shared with the Inspectorate of Prisons and made publically available on a regular basis. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Statistics on engagement with purposeful activity will be published on the IPS website on a half yearly basis and made available to the IOP. | Work Training Management System to be implemented. A regular set of statistics to be agreed for publishing on a half yearly basis and shared with Inspector of Prisons | Care and Rehabilitation Corporate Services | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The new WTMS is nearing completetion, with expected go live in Q3 2024. Work Training statistics for publication will be agreed at 'go live' and published half yearly. Education statistics will be published on the website during Q2 2024 and going forward every 6 months. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Restricted Regime | Legislation | HQEDWT2 | The Irish Prison Service, in particular the Director General and Prison Governors, should review the ongoing imposition of Rules 32A and 36A (Prison Rules 2020 Amendment), with a view to removing related restrictions as soon as possible (see paragraph 2.3). | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The necessity for Rule 32A and 36A (Prison Rules 2020 Amendment) will be kept under review. No restrictions are currently in place across the estate. | Prison Rule 32A and 36A to be reviewed | Operations | Throughout 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | The Irish Prison Service has wound down Covid-19 restrictive measures. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Work Training | Risk-Assessments | HQEDWT3 | The Irish Prison Service should develop an individual risk-assessed approach to determining maximum attendance numbers in work training activities. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The development of a risk assessment process to determine individual workshop capacity will be considered as part of the broader Work and Training joint task review. | Risk-assessed approach will be examined by IPS to determining maximum attendance numbers in work training activities. | Care and Rehabilitation Human Resources | Throughout 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | he joint task review is ongoing and capacity will be considered on agreement of workshops. The JTR is expected to complete Q2 2024. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Allocation of Tasks | HQEDWT4 | The Irish Prison Service should ensure that all prison officer posts are maximised to ensure access to and engagement with purposeful activity for all persons in custody. Prison officer posts and associated tasks should be flexible and designed to allow Governors to respond to changes in staffing structures. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The compliment of staff required to provide appropriate cover for activity is determined by task reviews completed by agreement between the Irish Prison Service and Staff Associations under the auspices of the WRC. The Irish Prison Service confirms that it is currently reviewing work and training activities across the prison estate, and engages with staff representatives under the Joint Task Review process in respect of changes that are required. | Finalisation of Joint Task Review of Work and Training across prisons estate. Prioritisation of Prisoner Services. Audit the application of additional resources for improvements in opening times and access to services. | Care and Rehabilitation Human Resources | 2024 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The joint task review remains ongoing and is expected to complete in 2024. New WTO panels have filled a number of vacancies, however some remain unfilled. There has been improvements in the prioritisation of Prisoner Services in the RMP, however staff shortages and prison overcrowding continue to impact on openings on a regular basis. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Prisoner Accounts | Gratuity | HQEDWT5 | The Irish Prison Service should review and update its Prisoner Gratuities and Private Cash Policy to ensure it aligns with Rule 28.4 and Rule 105.4 of the revised European Prison Rules. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Revision of Prison Rules and additional resources to give effect to this recommendation will be sought as part of Budget 2024 submission. | IPS will review Prisoner Gratuities and Private Cash Policy and update as appropriate. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | New gratuity rates were introduced from 22 April 2024. Policy update will be complete during Q3 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Staff Training | Work Training | HQEDWT6 | The Irish Prison Service should ensure that the prisons have reliable access to fully qualified trainers to deliver a work training programme, which is aligned to the needs of people in custody and responsive to prevailing employment opportunities, and has a means of replacing a trainer when they move on. This measure will support the Irish Prison Service to provide suitable opportunities for people in custody to be trained to a certifiable standard commensurate with recognised qualifications framework and to facilitate opportunities for certification. Additionally, Work Training Officers supporting the work-training programmes should be provided with initial training and frequent and regular in-service education and training to support them in this role. Attendance in this training should be compulsory. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The Irish Prison Service College has a programme of Continuous Professional Development for all Work and Training Officers and grades. It is part of the Work and Training Officer conditions of appointment to the role to attend such training. Continued Professional Development takes into account areas of expertise and responsibilities e.g. catering and Cleanpass instructor course. Relief panels for all Work and Training areas are in place in each prison and necessary training is delivered to these officers. There is a dedicated resource in the Irish Prison Service Training College tasked with identifying and scheduling training requirements for both newly promoted and existing WTO’s. The Irish Prison Service negotiated the inclusion in the Public Service Agreement: Building Momentum 2021 – 2022 the ability to directly recruit expert Work Training Officers. The Irish Prison Service are now engaged with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to progress the direct recruitment of Work and Training Officers. | Training for Work and Training Officer’s to be rolled out in 2023 in accordance with Irish Prison Service Training College 2023 training plan. This plan will be kept under constant revision throughout the year to identify and cater for emerging needs. | Irish Prison Service College | Throughout 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A number of WTO panels were recently put in place. Direct recruitment of the RPO WTO is dependent on the success of the RPO Trades Competition. A full review of this competition will be provided to DPER as required when the successful candidates have been appointed. IPSC continues to identify and schedule training. Prison staff availability impacts on staff being approved to attend training by their Prison. A number of new accredited training courses are being introduced for Prisoners to help meet industry shortages (NZEB, Catering) and Prison staff are being trained up to deliver these courses. Accredited training courses are being sought for Waste Management and Horticulture. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Work Training | Prisoner Certification | HQEDWT7 | The Irish Prison Service should ensure that all prisoners have access to externally accredited qualifications in all work training areas. Certification offered to prisoners should be labour-market tested and should be recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Care and Rehabilitation Directorate are reviewing accreditation with external bodies. Areas identified for priority include: • Industrial Cleaning, • Laundry, • Catering, • Waste Management and • Gym. Care and Rehabilitation is also engaging further with Solas as part of the Building Bridges Programme to review options for training and pathways to future training and employment. | Tenders are being developed to ensure accredited training is in place where Work and Training Officers can provide training and an awarding body will review and certify the training completed. Areas identified for priority in 2023: Industrial Cleaning, Laundry, Catering, Waste Management, Gym | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A number of new accredited training courses are being introduced for prisoners to help meet industry shortages (NZEB, Catering) and prison staff are being trained to deliver these courses. C&R expect to have accredited training in place by Q4 2024 for all areas identified for priority in 2023: Industrial Cleaning, Laundry, Catering, Waste Management, Gym. Talks are ongoing with Solas and other bodies to bring forward apprenticship qualifications during 2024. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Work Training | Initiatives | HQEDWT8 | Given the role of the Irish Prison Service in deciding what proposed initiatives are to be funded, it should place more emphasis on strategically identifying, in collaboration with prison staff, Governors and people in prison, initiatives that can be implemented across the prison-estate. Where applicable, the Irish Prison Service should also consult with ETBIs and Further Education and Training (FET) to identify areas for collaboration, especially in relation to certification and sustainability of initiatives. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | There are many individual examples of collaboration between Education and Work and Training in prisons across the estate. Best practices will be rolled out across the estate in keeping with the resources and profile of the particular prison. | The IPS will consider how it can better seek input into service design and delivery. The Building Bridge project, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, work plan to be progressed in 2023. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q2 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A number of examples are in place already including FAI coaching (across a number of prisons), Cork pop up kitchen, Horse and Pony care - Castlerea. A Prison Education Taskforce is working with Solas, IPS and other partners to ensure the closer alignment between Education and Work Training. Priorities for the Taskforce include piloting apprenticeships in prison, NZEB retrofitting training (due to commence Q1 in Wheatfield and Midlands. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Work Training | Prisoner Certification | HQEDWT9 | The Irish Prison Service should remove the name of prisons on certification obtained by persons in custody. This will increase a prisoner’s ability to earn a living after release in line with Rule 26.3 of the Revised European Prison Rules. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | On 22 November 2022 all Teachers and Work Training Officers were instructed that “the name of the prison is no longer to include in education/work and training certification obtained by persons in custody.” | Care and Rehabilitation Teachers Work and Training Officers | Completed | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Work Training / Education | Policy Development | HQEDWT10 | In order to provide a consistent approach to managing education provision across the prison estate, the IPS should develop a policy on education and training in collaboration with all of the relevant stakeholders. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The Irish Prison Service will undertake to develop a policy on education and training in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders. The Building Bridges work plan for 2023 will further progress collaboration. | A policy on education and training in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders will be developed in 2023. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A policy will be developed in conjunction with the new IPS Strategy which will encorporate work training and education strategy | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Purposeful Activity | Prison Capacity | HQEDWT11 | The IPS should conduct an audit of provision for education, work, training and other activities and develop a system which ensures that the cumulative options available have sufficient capacity for the size of the population in each prison. This system once developed should be included in the IPS policy for education and training in prisons. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Joint Task reviews are taking place in each prison for Work & Training area to determine the capacity of workshops and activities in each prison. The development of the Work and Training Management System will assist in this regard. It should be noted that in most prisons capital investment will be required to augment existing education and work training capacity. Capital investment in additional work training and/or education facilities will be considered as part of ongoing capital planning and project management. | An audit of provision for education, work training and other activities will be conducted. | Care and Rehabilitation | 2024 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Joint Task reviews are taking place in each prison for Work & Training areas to determine the capacity of workshops and activities in each prison. The development of the Work and Training Management System (WTMS) will assist in this regard. It should be noted that in most prisons, capital investment will be required to augment existing education and work training capacity. Capital investment in additional work training and/or education facilities will be considered as part of ongoing capital planning and project management. Education capacity and attendance per establishment is being recorded against targets on the organisation dashboard since Q3 2023. This work is being expanded to include work training capacity and attendance in 2024] | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Education | Prison Support | HQEDWT12 | It was evident during the inspection that additional factors were impacting the operation of the schools in Mountjoy Main Prison and Wheatfield Prison. These factors included enduring IPS Industrial Relations issues and substance use amongst students. IPS Headquarters and respective prison managements, in discharging their duty of care, should develop a strategic plan to resolve these issues and ensure that the rights, welfare, and needs of students are prioritised in decision making. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The development of the new Keeping Drugs out of Prison Strategy will continue to emphasise and develop supply and demand reduction strategies. | Keeping Drugs out of Prison Strategy to be published end Q1 2023. | Care and Rehabilitation Custody and Security | Q2 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service Drugs Strategy 2023-2026 was launched 29/11/2023 and sets out clear measures to be taken by the IPS to tackle the problem of substances of abuse in prisons over the next three years. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Education | Prison Support | HQEDWT13 | In the prisons where there are significant issues in relation to student access to the school, teachers are faced with a more challenging work environment. The challenges are due to having to deal with the unpredictability of the opening of the school, the erosion of the start and finishing times, the inaccessibility of accommodation and resources, and difficulties in providing outreach support for the most vulnerable students. While it is accepted and understood that safety and security are prioritised, a plan should be developed and put in place, to ensure that the teachers are facilitated to do their work without impediment, for as much of the school day as possible. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Additional Hours have been allocated to alleviate staff shortages pending the recruitment of additional staff in 2023. The Irish Prison Service will monitor and audit the application of these additional resources for improvements in opening times and access to person in custody services and provide periodic reports. | Human Resources Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Staff shortages and High prisoner numbers continue to impact. There has been improvemnents with schools and workshops getting increased priority under the RMP in most prisons. A review of the standard prison day will take place in Q2 2024 to identify further opportunities for improved access to school. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Education | Digital Learning | HQEDWT14 | It is recommended that further access to technology for learning should be provided for students in their cells. IT is currently being used successfully as a learning tool in prisons in other jurisdictions, this experience could be researched by IPS and ETBI as a potential support to implementing this recommendation. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | An MOU was agreed with City of Dublin ETB and IPS in October 2022 on in-cell learning using the prison TV channel. CDETB learning content (e.g. History, English, and Spanish) is broadcast in the 6 Dublin prison schools, 7 days a week, afternoon and evening time and during the school holidays. Workbooks are completed by learners in their cells. Once workbooks are completed satisfactorily, credit is given by the teacher on the learner’s academic record. IPS have agreed to the use of MS Surface devices in education. | Review and embed blended in-cell learning in Dublin prisons. Memorandum of Understanding to be developed for other ETBs for blended in-cell learning. Develop a policy on the technology that will be used in the schools. The roll out of MS Surface devices is expected by 2Q 2023. Roll out WIFI access in schools and libraries. Innovation and embracing technology will form a central part of the next Irish Prison Service Strategic Plan to be published in 2023. | Educational Training Boards Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A programme of incell learning was developed by CDETB. It is shared with other ETB's and runs regularly on the incell tv channel. Further technology enhancements are beng developed through the Building Bridges Programme and these will come on stream late in Q4 2023 and throughout 2024. The IPS continues to explore new technology and will examine potential options in line with the IPS. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | IPS HQ | Education | Collaboration | HQEDWT15 | The schools included in this thematic inspection of education and their respective prison management teams, with the assistance of the CDETB, should work more closely together to further align the educational and training programmes with the needs of the students and requirements of prospective employers. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Meetings with Head Teachers are held quarterly to further align the educational training programmes with student’s needs. The Irish Prison Service will work more closely together with key stakeholders to further align programmes with the needs of students and requirements of prospective employers. The Building Bridges Programme in 2023 will build on the well-established infrastructure already in place between the Education and Training Boards and the Irish Prison Service to both expand and improve on outcomes for learners. | Increased engagement with IASIO, Solas and other services on employer requirements. The Working to Change Strategy 2021 – 2023 supports employment options for people with convictions to remove barriers that make progression challenging. | Care and Rehabilitation | Q4 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | A number of new accredited training courses are being introduced for Prisoners to help meet industry shortages (NZEB, Catering) and Prison staff are being trained up to deliver these courses.] Talks are ongoing with Solas and other bodies to bring forward apprenticship qualifications during 2024. An education taskforce chaired Jointly by the Minister for DFHERIS and Minister of State at the Dept of Justice is working with Solas, IPS and other partners to ensure the closer alignment between Education and Work Training. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Wheatfield Prison | Purposeful Activity | Access | WFEDWT1 | The Governor of Wheatfield Prison should take all necessary action to guarantee that all prisoners, in particular young adults and prisoners on protection, are provided with a minimum of five hours of purposeful activity for five days per week, in line with Rule 27(3) of the Prison Rules 2007-2020. Wheatfield Prison should work towards the CPT’s recommended minimum eight hours out-of-cell time for prisoners engaged in purposeful activities. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The standard Prison Day has been recently reviewed to enhance availability and consistency of service. This aims to improve predictability of opening of the school and accessibility to accommodation. A new Regime Management Plan (RMP) has now been implemented by Wheatfield Management. This RMP prioritises education and work training where possible. In-cell learning in place in Dublin Prisons. In line with the Public Service Agreement Building Momentum 2021 – 2022, the IPS are engaging with Staff Associations regarding the delivery and management of services over the extended prison day [8 am to 8 pm]. | Prisons and teachers informed of the standard prison day time requirement for access to service. Constant review of the Regime Management Plan in 2023. The Prison school (CDETB) is offering learning content (e.g. English, Maths, Spanish) to prisoners through in-cell blended learning seven days a week, in the afternoon and evening time and during the school holidays. The Irish Prison Service will give consideration to this recommendation and revert to the Inspector of Prisons in due course. | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | [The standard Prison Day has been recently reviewed to enhance availability and consistency of service. This aims to improve predictability of opening of the school and accessibility to accommodation. A new Regime Management Plan (RMP) has now been implemented by Wheatfield Management. This RMP prioritises education and work training where possible. In-cell learning is in place in all Prisons. Prisons and the prisoner population is dynamic and fluctuates, therefore the RMP and deployment of staff requires regular review Prisons and teachers were informed of the standard prison day time requirement for access to service. The Prison school (CDETB) is offering learning content (e.g. English, Maths, Spanish) to prisoners through in-cell blended learning seven days a week, in the afternoon and evening time and during the school holidays. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | Wheatfield Prison | Library | Access | WFEDWT2 | As recommended by the OIP in 2021, and in line with Rule 110 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Governor of Wheatfield Prison should immediately re-open the library in the main prison and ensure access to all prisoners in that area of the prison on a consistent basis. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The library on the East Division is fully opened and the librarian is actively managing stock, prisoner requests and ran a reading pledge in September 2022. Children’s books are in place for prisoners to read to their children on video calls. The library in the main prison has difficulties in opening due to staffing restrictions. Wheatfield prison has worked closely with the Librarian in having a range of leaflets for prisoners for issues and services e.g. accommodation, alcohol / drug addiction, self-help, mediation etc. The library has been painted and Wheatfield prison has started a work training project to create a multi-functional space with a new book storage area, area for prisoner computer work stations and to create a multi-function space that can operate as a Library/Community Hub to accommodate the recreational, information and lifelong learning needs of the prison community as well as being used for group meetings i.e. the red cross etc. Other works planned include new flooring, new purpose built desk and comfortable seating for reading. | The Joint Task Review will take place to examine staffing levels and will also consider the 2022 Local Government Management Agency library review recommendations and draft Service Level Agreement. This includes provision of book stock in areas where persons in custody are unable to visit the library in person. Initiatives identified in column 4 for the library are works in progress during 2023. | Human Resources Care and Rehabilitation Librarian | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Covid-19 restrictions on the opening of prison libraries have been wound down. Closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Wheatfield Prison | Work Training | Selection Process | WFEDWT3 | The Governor in consultation with management in Wheatfield Prison should systematically and strategically identify opportunities for work training certification to be offered to people in custody, with a particular focus on people who do not already have a certification and/or vocational experience (such as young adults). | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Car valeting has been identified as a new workshop. Other initiatives include: Barber shop, embroidery and fabric shop, rolling out of “Clean pass” and “manual handling” training to all prisoners within Work and Training areas. Wheatfield prison also recycles computers for charity. The ISM team in Wheatfield are up to date in all their Personal Implementation Plans and prisoner interviews. | The Irish Prison Service is working to ensure that individuals in custody have access to externally accredited qualifications in work training areas. Certification offered aims to be labour-market tested and recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. Arrangements will be agreed with prisons to include Wheatfield for the commencement of accredited training in ‘production’ areas on a progressive basis in 2023 and priority areas have been identified. | Human Resources Multi-Disciplinary teams Teachers Prisoners | Personal Implementation Plans (PIPs) to be progressed ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is working to ensure that individuals in custody have access to externally accredited qualifications in work training areas. Certification offered aims to be labour-market tested and recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. Wheatfield provides accredited training in ‘production’ areas and will be part of the ne w catering training offered in partnership with TUS Athlone. NZEB / retrofitting training commenced in Q1 2024. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Access | MJPUEDWT1 | [Progression Unit] In line with Rule 111 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Governor of Mountjoy Prison should ensure that all prisoners in the Progression Unit have access to a structured programme of training. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) will assist in this regard to identify individual prisoner requirements. | PIP to be developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. | Mountjoy Integrated Sentence Management Teachers | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Complete | Mountjoy Prison in Collaboration with Care and Rehabilitation Directorate (Education and Work and Training) will seek to ensure appropriate training activities are available in the Prison. Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) will assist in this regard to identify individual prisoner requirements. PIP to be developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Selection Process | MJPUEDWT2 | [Progression Unit] A formal selection process that systematically and strategically identifies opportunities for work training certification should be adopted by the Governor of the Prison. This should ensure rotational engagement with work training for those prisoners who would like to engage, and should be targeted to all prisoners regardless of sentence length. This process should be clearly communicated to prisoners. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) will assist in this regard to identify individual prisoner requirements. Short sentence length do not lend themselves to participating in some education and work and training programmes. The Irish Prison Service provide constructive activities with the aim to identify suitable general crafts and other works for persons in custody with options for short accreditation courses. | Personal Implementation Plans developed and reviewed on an individual basis for prisoners eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. Mountjoy Management commit to piloting rotational engagement for prisoners who would like to engage in Work and Training activities Kitchen and Laundry. Mountjoy management will communicate the process to prisoners and review this rotational arrangement in Q3 2023. | Mountjoy Integrated Sentence Management Teachers | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Mountjoy Prison in Collaboration with Care and Rehabilitation Directorate (Education and Work and Training) ensure appropriate training activities are available in the Prison. Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) sssist in identifying individual prisoner requirements. The Irish Prison Service provide constructive activities with the aim to identify suitable general crafts and other works for persons in custody with options for short accreditation courses. PIPs developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. Mountjoy Management commit to piloting rotational engagement for prisoners who would like to engage in Work and Training activities Kitchen and Laundry. Mountjoy management will communicate the process to prisoners and review this rotational arrangement on an ongoing basis. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Library | Access | MJPUEDWT3 | [Progression Unit] In line with Rule 110 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Mountjoy Prison Governor should ensure that all prisoners in the Progression Unit are able to access library services on a consistent basis. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The loss of a considerable number of staff on a daily basis to cover court escort activity and hospital in-patient and out-patient appointments impacts negatively on the availability of staff to cover all posts in the prison. The Officer in charge of the school opens the library and allows access to prisoners attending school. There are two prisoners trained to operate this service. | The LGMA library review recommendations will be progressed in 2023. This includes provision of book stock in areas where persons in custody are unable to visit the library in person. | Mountjoy Management Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Prisoner Certification | MJPUEDWT4 | [Progression Unit] The Mountjoy Prison Governor should expand work training activity and ensure the option of accredited certification is available for people in custody in the Progression Unit, with a particular focus on people who do not already have a certification and/or vocational experience. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The Irish Prison Service is working to ensure that individuals in custody have access to externally accredited qualifications in work training areas. Certification offered aims to be labour-market tested and recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. | Arrangements will be agreed with prisons to include Mountjoy for the commencement of accredited training in ‘production’ areas on a progressive basis in 2023 and priority areas identified include 1. Industrial cleaning, 2. Laundry, 3. Catering, 4 Waste Management and 5. Gym areas. | Mountjoy Management Care and Rehabilitation | Areas to be commenced in 2023: Q1 2023 Industrial cleaning Q2 2023 Laundry Q3 2023 Catering Q3 2023 Waste Management Q2 2023 Gym | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is working to ensure that individuals in custody have access to externally accredited qualifications in work training areas. Certification offered aims to be labour-market tested and recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. Arrangements will be agreed with prisons to include Mountjoy for the commencement of accredited training in ‘production’ areas on a progressive basis and priority areas identified include 1. Industrial cleaning, 2. Laundry, 3. Catering, 4 Waste Management and 5. Gym areas. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Purposeful Activity | Access | MJMEDWT1 | [Main Prison] The Governor of Mountjoy Prison should adopt measures as a matter of urgency to increase access to purposeful activity, including work training for prisoners on protection and prisoners in the Medical Unit. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Demands on resources together with a Victorian-era prison with older facilities curtails ability to provide work training opportunities for all. School and Work and Training closures are directly attributable to prison staff short-falls as a result of the large numbers of officers required to escort persons in custody outside the prison to courts and hospitals. Pending the recruitment of additional staff and will effect from September 2022 additional hours were and will continue to be made available at prison level to support improvements in opening hours and access to services including Work and Training and education services. | Arrangements will be agreed with prisons to include Mountjoy for the commencement of accredited training in ‘production’ areas on a progressive basis in 2023 and priority areas identified include 1. Industrial cleaning, 2. Laundry, 3. Catering, 4 Waste Management and 5. Gym areas. | Areas to be commenced in 2023: Q1 2023 Industrial cleaning Q2 2023 Laundry Q3 2023 Catering Q3 2023 Waste Management Q2 2023 Gym | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The regime in the Medical Unit and Protection landings do not allow for full Work and training facilities. Waste management, laundry, Industrial Cleaning, Fabric Shops and Kitchen areas require a freedom of movement without risk to any Prisoner. Each Prisoner involved in Work & Training must be able to mix with the general population particularly essential services. Medical Units are primarily used to address addiction Issues and provide counselling services. A Prisoner wishing to engage in work in training in the Medical Unit will be assessed on their ability to operate certain appliances/ machines safely. Class-Cleaning, painting duties, local Industrial Cleaning duties and Gymnasiums can be offered to those who are able to mix within the Protection Units where Induction training can be provided. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Purposeful Activity | Access | MJMEDWT2 | [Main Prison] The Governor of Mountjoy Prison should take all necessary action to guarantee that all prisoners, in particular prisoners on protection, are accommodated with an absolute minimum of five hours of purposeful activity for five days per week, in line with Rule 27(3) of the Prison Rules 2007-2020. Mountjoy Prison should work towards the CPT’s recommended minimum eight hours out-of-cell time for prisoners engaged in purposeful activities. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | There are currently a number of separate groups of protection prisoners with complex needs, there is also a number of divisions of ordinary prisoners, and every effort is made to provide all prisoners with as much purposeful activities as possible. However given the demand on staff to carry out court duties and other unplanned activities together with staff shortfalls and limited facilities available it is not possible to currently achieve 5 hours consistent purposeful activity for all prisoners. However, in the context of additional funding assigned to the IPS in 2023 for additional prison staff, we hope to achieve this objective in due course. With regard to the CPT’s recommendation of a minimum of eight hours out-of-cell time, the Irish Prison Service will give consideration to this recommendation and revert to the Inspector of Prisons in due course. In line with the Public Service Agreement Building Momentum 2021 – 2022, the IPS are engaging with Staff Associations regarding the delivery and management of services over the extended prison day [8 am to 8 pm]. | Prisons and teachers informed of the standard prison day time requirement for access to service. Constant review of the Regime Management Plan in 2023. The Prison school (CDETB) is offering learning content (e.g. English, Maths, Spanish) to prisoners through in-cell blended learning seven days a week, in the afternoon and evening time and during the school holidays. | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | IPS please complete for Q3/Q4 2023 Status Update Date: [Q2 2024] Status: [Ongoing] Comment on Actions Taken: [The IPS are conducting a review of work training options across the estate, for Mountjoy this will include a change in the offering available with a view to introducing more relevant work training options. A recruitment campaign is ongoing to increase the number of work training officers for each location and assignments will be made for each vacant post. The delivery of services will be subject to resource availability and is impacted by the significant levels of overcrowding. The prison will continue to apply its Regime Management Plan to ensure a safe system of work, and the plan will prioritise work training areas | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Library | Access | MJMEDWT3 | [Main Prison] As recommended by the OIP in 2021, and in line with Rule 110 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Governor of Mountjoy Prison should ensure the library is consistently open, and that prisoners who do not attend school are facilitated to access library services on a consistent basis. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | The Governor, Mountjoy Prison confirms that the officer in charge of the school opens the library and allows access to prisoners attending school to borrow books. The Governor, Mountjoy has confirmed that there is now two prisoners trained to operate the service. | Book stock will be held on landings as an alternative for prisoners having limited library access. Prisoners will be able to change and loan books from this stock on a consistent basis. | Mountjoy Prison Management Care and Rehabilitation Librarian | Q3 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Access to prison libraries have been restored however, closures of libraries may be experienced in line with the prison Regime Management Plan. The Local Government Management Agency commissioned a review of Prison Libraries and the Report was published in Q3 2022. Recommendations from this report are being implemented during 2023 and 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Certification | MJMEDWT4 | [Main Prison] The Governor of Mountjoy Prison should ensure facilitation of certification for prisoners in all work training activities, with particular focus on protection prisoners and prisoners in the Medical Unit who have little to no opportunity to access and achieve vocational certification. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Prisoners who request protection usually do so for fear of violence or as a result of drug related intimidation. Certified work training activities including laundry, tuck shop, catering and Waste Management which require prisoners to have the flexibility to move freely throughout the prison. For safety reasons it is not possible for prisoners on a protection regime undertake such roles. Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) will assist in this regard to identify individual prisoner requirements. | PIP to be developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. | Mountjoy Prison Management Integrated Sentence Management Officers Prisoners Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The Irish Prison Service is working to ensure that individuals in custody have access to externally accredited qualifications in work training areas. Certification offered aims to be labour-market tested and recognised by employers to improve employment prospects upon release. Arrangements will be agreed with prisons to include Mountjoy for the commencement of accredited training in ‘production’ areas on a progressive basis in 2023 and priority areas identified include 1. Industrial cleaning, 2. Laundry, 3. Catering, 4 Waste Management and 5. Gym areas. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Selection Process | MJMEDWT5 | [Main Prison] A formal selection process that systematically and strategically identifies opportunities for work training certification should be adopted by the Governor of Mountjoy Prison. This should ensure equality of opportunity for prisoners with rotational engagement for those prisoners who would like to engage with work training, and should be targeted to all prisoners regardless of protection status. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Prisoners who request protection usually do so for fear of violence or as a result of drug related intimidation. Certified work training activities including laundry, tuck shop, catering and Waste Management which require prisoners to have the flexibility to move freely throughout the prison. For safety reasons it is not possible for prisoners on a protection regime undertake such roles. Personal Implementation Plans (PIP) will assist in this regard to identify individual prisoner requirements. | PIP to be developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management. | Mountjoy Prison Management ISM Officers Prisoners Care and Rehabilitation | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | The regime in the Medical Unit and Protection landings do not allow for full Work and training facilities. Waste management, laundry, Industrial Cleaning, Fabric Shops and Kitchen areas require a freedom of movement without risk to any Prisoner. Each Prisoner involved in Work & Training must be able to mix with the general population particularly essential services. Medical Units are primarily used to address addiction Issues and provide counselling services. A Prisoner wishing to engage in work in training in the Medical Unit will be assessed on their ability to operate certain appliances/ machines safely. Class-Cleaning, painting duties, local Industrial Cleaning duties and Gymnasiums can be offered to those who are able to mix within the Protection Units where Induction training can be provided. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Mountjoy Men's Prison | Work Training | Access | MJMEDWT6 | [Main Prison] In line with Rule 111 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Governor of Mountjoy Prison should ensure that prisoners have access to a programme of training. Given the intention to remove work training, aside from essential work, from the prison, Mountjoy Prison should proactively identify and implement opportunities for sustainable work training initiatives to be brought into the prison through external community engagement and through collaboration with the school. | Rehabilitation & Development | Part Accepted | 09/02/2023 | It is not intended to remove Work and Training activities apart from essential work from the prison. Priorities have been identified as outlined in (MJMEDWT1). Every effort is made to support prisoners through a variety of work training and education opportunities, Mountjoy collaborate with a number of community organisations. | MJ to continue to progress initiatives having regard to resource requirements. | Mountjoy Prison Management Care and Rehabilitation Prison School Work and Training | 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | It is not intended to remove Work and Training activities apart from essential work from the prison. Priorities have been identified as outlined in (MJMEDWT1). Every effort is made to support prisoners through a variety of work training and education opportunities, Mountjoy collaborate with a number of community organisations. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 23/12/2022 | Arbour Hill Prison | Work Training | Certification | AHEDWT1 | The Governor of Arbour Hill Prison should ensure, in collaboration with the school, that the option of accredited work-training certification is available for people in custody. Focus should be on meeting the needs and requirements of people who may be elderly, or who have already received certification and thus may require intermediate and advanced training. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Personal Implementation Plans (PIPs) are developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management taking into account the needs and requirements to include those who are elderly and different educational requirements. The ISM team in Arbour Hill are up to date in all their PIP and CIP plans and prisoner interviews. Work and Training continue to implement initiatives and priorities areas in training and accreditation. | Arbour Hill Prison Management Integrated Sentence Management Officers | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Personal Implementation Plans (PIPs) are developed and reviewed on an individual basis for each prisoner eligible for Integrated Sentence Management taking into account the needs and requirements to include those who are elderly and different educational requirements. The ISM team in Arbour Hill are up to date in all their PIP and CIP plans and prisoner interviews. Work and Training continue to implement initiatives and priorities areas in training and accreditation. | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 23/12/2022 | Arbour Hill Prison | Work Training | Initiatives | AHEDWT2 | In line with Rule 111 of the Prison Rules 2007-2020, the Governor of Arbour Hill Prison should ensure that prisoners have access to a programme of work training. Arbour Hill Prison should proactively identify and implement opportunities for work training initiatives to be brought into the prison through external community engagement and through collaboration with the school. | Rehabilitation & Development | Accepted | 09/02/2023 | Arbour Hill will continue to identify and implement opportunities for initiatives to be brought into the prison. | Ongoing 2023 | Q2 2024 | IPS - Ongoing | Arbour Hill in collaboration with C&R Directorate (Work and Training) will continue to identify and implement opportunities for initiatives to be brought into the prison | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Healthcare | MHT1 | It is recommended that the vacancies for IPS nursing staff in Cloverhill Prison be urgently filled (by recruitment or initially, partially, by redeployment). Recruitment may be enhanced by targeted recruitment events. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS has implemented a rolling nurse recruitment campaign. This has resulted in a significant number of nurse posts being filled and it is hoped that each post in Cloverhill will be filled by end of Q3 2023. | In progress | IPS Human Resources | Q3 2023 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Healthcare | MHT2 | It is recommended that the benefits of employing Healthcare Assistants in prisons other than Cloverhill Prison is formally assessed, particularly in the special units, with a view to employing such staff in support of IPS nurses in relevant facilities. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS are engaging with DPENDR in relation to the recruitment of HCA equivalent roles across the estate. Once approved, these staff will deployed as required in support of IPS nurses. | In progress | IPS Human Resources | Q2 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | MHT3 | It is recommended that efforts to fill the vacancies for psychology staff across the prison service are redoubled as a high priority, including reconsidering the terms and conditions of such staffs’ employment, including enhancing incentives, to try and stem the loss of such staff overseas, and enhance the recruitment and retention of psychologists from home and abroad. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The Irish Prison Service Psychology Service have engaged in wideranging strategic initiatives to recruit and retain Psychologists. This includes recruitment of Assistant Psychologists, lecturing to all Irish Psychologist training programmes (inc. prison visit and opportunity to meet with people in custody), attendance at career fairs, engaging in career talks and early graduate forums, provision of specialist training placements, ongoing locum advertisement, advertising permanent posts in Ireland, UK and Australia, engaging in high uality research and publications, providing each Psychologist with a personal CPD budget, high quality training and supervision, designated reading days, payment of Psychological Society of Ireland registration, payment of Dept. of Health Validation (for those who qualified abroad), funding of four trainee psychologists with UCC from chronically vacant posts and a business case submitted to Estimates 2024 for ongoing psychologist training sponsorship. | In progress | IPS Care & Rehabilitation Directorate / Psychology Services | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | MHT4 | It is recommended that the vacant post of rape crisis counsellor at the Dóchas Centre be filled as soon as possible. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The Governor of the Dóchas centre has confirmed that this post will be filled by early October at the latest. | In progress | IPS Care & Rehabilitation Directorate | Oct-23 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | MHT5 | It is recommended that the consultant psychiatrist input to Mountjoy Men’s Prison, Limerick Prison, Portlaoise Prison and the Dóchas Centre is substantially increased and that the vacant 0.5 WTE consultant psychiatrist post at Cloverhill Prison is filled. Liaison with the HSE regarding this should occur without delay. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | MHT6 | It is recommended that the specialist forensic mental health nurse input to Limerick Prison is increased to at least one whole time equivalent post, preferably more, and the level of such input provided to Portlaoise Prison, Mountjoy Men’s Prison and the Dóchas Centre is increased by at least 50%. Liaison with the HSE regarding this should occur without delay. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | MHT7 | It is recommended that social worker input is provided at Limerick and Midlands Prisons and at the Dóchas Centre it is increased to at least one whole time equivalent. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staff Training | Mental Health | MHT8 | It is recommended that further formal training regarding the recognition, assessment, and treatment of prisonerswith mental disorder, including regarding communication and risk issues, is offered to prison officers. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The oversight group for MHAT has reviewed the content of this programme over the past 12 months. Focus will be initiated on developing a half day refresher course and hosting these refresher courses at regular frequency. | In Progress | IPS Human Resources / IPS College | Q4 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staff Supports | MHT9 | It is recommended that the provision of individual and/or group psychological support sessions (e.g., monthly) are offered to prison officers, with particular emphasis on those staff working in areas where the level of mental disorder is more acute, such as the special units where such prisoners are accommodated. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | This recommendation will be further considered, subject to the availability of relevant resources. The IPS currently provides a comprehensive staff support framework through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). This programme is supported by three full time staff and a network of Service Support Officers across the prison estate, all of whom are trained to provide support and assistance to staff. In addition all staff have access to the INSPIRE programme through which they can access free counselling services and additional supports are available through the text PRISON service for 24/7 easily accessible support. | For review | IPS Human Resources / Psychology Service | Q4 2023 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Mental Healthcare | MHT10 | It is recommended that occupational therapists be employed by the Irish Prison Service, tasked with offering occupational therapy to mentally disordered prisoners. This will, of course, require them to be appropriately trained and there to be areas where they can safely work (including with sufficient prison officer presence to address safety issues). | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS has an approved vacancy for an Occupational Therapist Manager to develop a prison-based Occupational Therapy (OT) Service. A competition was held in 2022 but was unsuccessful in filling the post. The post is scheduled for advertisement again in Q3 2023. The IPS Psychology Service have consulted extensively with the NFMHS Occupational Therapist Manager and the national OT Manager forum to improve the OT Manager job description to maximise applications to the upcoming competition. Under the supervision and management of the Head of Psychology, it is envisaged the OT Manager will develop an initial strategic plan, prioritising people in custody with major mental illness. | In Progress | IPS Human Resources | Q3 2023 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | MHT11 | It is recommended that administrative support staff are employed alongside clinical staff to support them, improving resource efficiency by freeing up the clinical care time of more expensive and higher trained staff. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | MHT12 | It is recommended that the benefits of employing housing support staff in all prisons is reassessed, and the resource made available (or increased) for their employment as required. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | See response to MHT2. | In progress | IPS Human Resources | Q2 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Environment | Cell Conditions | MHT13 | It is recommended that the dilapidation noted in certain cells in the prisons visited be rectified. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | IPS Trades Staff and facilities management service provider are available to complete any identified maintenance issues that arise within the prison estate. Estates /Building Services Division will complete a review of the areas identified in the Report with a view to identifying any maintenance or remedial action that may be required. Any works required with be completed subject to operational and capacity issues. | In progress | IPS Estates / Building Services Division | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Overcrowding | Diversion | MHT14 | It is recommended that assertive action is taken to ensure that every prisoner has their own bed and that prison occupancies do not exceed official capacities. As this requires a systemwide approach, potentially including a greater use of community sentences, diversion from custody, accelerated release and greater transfer to psychiatric hospitals, as well as provision of more prison places, there will need to be liaison between the Department of Justice, courts and the HSE. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Staffing | Safety | MHT15 | It is recommended that a safety review of HSE-seconded clinical staff occurs in Limerick Prison to ensure that risks to them there are minimised. It is suggested that this would need to include involvement from the HSE, as well as the IPS. | Safety & Security | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS will engage with local HSE mental health services in Limerick and the NFMHS regarding the safety of in reach mental health staff. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation / Healthcare | Q3 2023 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT16 | It is recommended that Prisoner A, who has been accepted for treatment at the CMH, be transferred there without any further delay. Liaison with the HSE regarding this should occur as a matter of urgency. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT17 | It is recommended that Prisoner B, who has been accepted for treatment at the CMH, be transferred there without delay. Liaison with the HSE regarding this should occur as a matter of urgency. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT18 | It is recommended that the proposals for expanding the number of places in special medical and other units for mentally disordered challenging prisoners’ places be progressed. This could include the creation of a largercapacity, dedicated, drug-free unit for prisoners with mental disorder, especially those awaiting transfer to psychiatric hospital, and for those who have returned to custody from psychiatric hospital and require reintegration into more mainstream prison accommodation. Apart from agreement on its location, number of places (ensuring its clinical manageability) and the construction/ refurbishment of such a facility, its staffing complement would need to be sufficient, including enough staff of all relevant clinical disciplines, as well as of appropriately trained prison officers. Further, its safe and therapeutic regime and milieu would need to be planned, with senior clinical involvement in its development and in the associated clinical protocols. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS has established a Working Group with the NFMHS to examine how best to strengthen facilities for prisoners transferred back from the CMH and to consider clinical services for those awaiting admission to the CMH. This Group is reviewing operational and clinical procedures within a central prison location. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation (with support from NFMHS) | Report will be prepared by working group by Q4 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Activities / Services | Access | MHT19 | It is recommended that greater efforts be made to offer prisoners with mental health difficulties meaningful and creative activities, so as to offer diversion and a sense of achievement, and to assist them in their psychosocial rehabilitation. This will require the appointment of appropriate occupational therapists and technical instructors, as well as sufficient prison staff across the prison service. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | See responses to MHT10 and MHT18. The IPS consistently advertise and recruit for vacant posts across the Estate to ensure sufficient staff levels are maintained. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation and Human Resources | Ongoing | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Disability | MHT20 | It is recommended that greater expertise in the field of intellectual disability is made available to prisoners via the increased presence of staff with relevant training and skills, the development of relevant assessment protocols and the provision of targeted remedial interventions that are more sophisticated than just routine education. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | IPS C&R Prisoner Services team will engage with the ETBs to ensure all existing supports are utilised. The IPS is currently working with Solas Building Bridges project to bring forward increased use of educational technology in the prison schools. Many of these new educational software and the use of touch screen technology are supportive of users with intellectual disabilities. In addition, the IPS Healthcare team with the NFMHS and Probation Service is currently commissioning research to establish the level of mental health conditions and intellectual disability across the prison estate. Informed by this analysis, the IPS will develop additional screening protocols and further targeted interventions to address these needs. Finally, the IPS Psychology Service currently undertake full Intellectual Disability assessments as required. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation | Q2 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Healthcare | Medication | MHT21 | It is recommended that the responsibility for administering depot psychotropic medications and physical investigations related to medication (e.g., blood tests, ECGs) for in-reach mental health team caseload patients is formally agreed and communicated to all relevant parties by the clinical management structures. Further, annual blood monitoring of all prisoners receiving psychotropic medication should be ensured. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS is engaging with NFMHS to develop protocols and to quantify the volume of diagnostic work under the group established for MHT18. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation (with support from NFMHS) | Q2 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Record-Keeping | MHT22 | It is recommended that the lack of mutual access to clinical records and documentation between psychology and other clinical disciplines is overcome. Even if certain information is deemed highly confidential and remains restricted, broader mutual access to certain core information should be facilitated, particularly when it relates to key risks to self and others. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The IPS Psychology Case Tracking System/ Prisoner Health Management System Working Group has reported to the IPS Directors’ Leadership Team and improvements to providing increased reciprocal access are in progress with IPS ICT Department. | In progress | IPS Care and Rehabilitation | Q3 2024 | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | ||
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT23 | It is recommended that urgent consideration be given to the systemic changes that are required to facilitate the swift transfer of minor offenders who have mental disorders to local psychiatric hospitals. As this is likely to require the development and opening of long-discussed, appropriately secure, intensive care facilities/ designated beds in civil psychiatric hospitals, this calls for a multi-agency approach. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT24 | It is recommended that action be taken to remove the current impediments to homeless prisoners with mental disorders obtaining psychiatric treatment in civil psychiatric hospitals. Liaison with the HSE regarding this should occur as a matter of urgency. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT25 | Urgent action is required to create a rapid pathway to allow mentally disordered prisoners requiring a designated psychiatric hospital bed to be swiftly transferred to the CMH. This is likely to require additional staffing (of nurses and other disciplines) and opening of the currently unused beds at the CMH, greater freeing of CMH beds via opportunities for those patients in CMH to be rehabilitated along pathways where treatment can be provided in other hospitals or the community (and, possibly, the use of the independent sector provision) and wider designation. High-level interagency liaison, including with the HSE will be required. Specific protocols which define expected periods of assessment and treatment (including sometimes shorter admissions for compulsory treatment with medication) should be considered, as should waiting list criteria and targets. | Health & Wellbeing | NA | 16/08/2023 | The IPS agrees with but cannot accept or implement this recommendation due to its ownership resting with another body. | NA | Department of Health | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
| 13/07/2023 | IPS HQ | Mental Healthcare | Appropriate Treatment Facility | MHT26 | It is recommended that the size of waiting lists for admission to civil psychiatric hospitals and the CMH and the time taken for referral, assessment and admission be transparently monitored in a format jointly agreed by the IPS and HSE. | Health & Wellbeing | Accepted | 16/08/2023 | The implementation of this recommendation by the IPS will need to be subject to an agreement between IPS and CMH/HSE, taking into consideration relevant data sharing restrictions. | For review | IPS Care and Rehabilitation / Department of Health | TBC | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | |
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