30,000 temporary releases in 8 months

More than 30,000 cases of temporary release have been granted in prisons over the last eight months, official figures show.

Use of temporary release is highest in jails with the most serious overcrowding problem: Limerick, Cork, Dochas women’s prison, and Mountjoy.

It is the first time the number of temporary release decisions have been made available, thanks to the introduction of a data system in March.