Mountjoy closure proposed in prisons bill

THE proposed closure of the oldest and largest prison in the country, Mountjoy, is highlighted in the new prisons bill which was published last evening.

Mandatory drug testing of prisoners and the provision of video links between jails and courts are also contained in the bill.

Other changes to the way detention centres operate will include the introduction of charges for prison escorts, in special circumstances, and the creation of a statutory office of Inspector of Prisons which will investigate complaints from prisoners who feel they have been treated unfairly.