Murderer 'tried to choke Portlaoise Prison guard'

By William O'Toole

Prison authorities have launched an investigation after a convicted murderer allegedly tried to choke a prison officer at Portlaoise Prison last night.

The incident happened shortly after 7pm when, it is claimed, the prisoner grabbed the officer by the throat after he was let out of his cell.

It is understood that another prison officer was also injured in the incident.

The prisoner was housed in landing C1 at the prison, which is reserved for some of Ireland's most dangerous prisoners.