Call for Dáil debate on prisons report

THERE are calls for a full Dáil debate on the findings of a European inspection report which highlighted “inhumane” conditions in Irish prisons and for a high-level group to take responsibility for implementing its recommendations.

The report by the Council of Europe Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) said there were “degrading” and “debasing” conditions in many prisons.

It said the problems of overcrowding and poor physical conditions are worst in Cork, Mountjoy, Limerick female prison and parts of Portlaoise prison.