Prisoners to get drug tests, vows McDowell

MANDATORY drug tests, closed visits for addicts and dog units will be introduced as Justice Minister Michael McDowell yesterday vowed to eliminate the supply of narcotics into the State’s prisons.

Opponents argue that there is no way of eliminating drugs in prisons, that his plans will in fact increase the number of heroin users and lead to rising tensions between inmates and staff.

Mr McDowell, in a speech to governors inside Portlaoise Prison yesterday, outlined the strategy he believes will eliminate the supply of drugs into prisons.