Cultural problems at detention centres

Cultural problems in child detention centres and the proper resourcing of inspection agencies are among a range of issues that need to be tackled, according to a new report.

The report — carried out as part of a Europe-wide initiative — also raises concerns about the enforcement of recommendations by monitoring bodies and the lack of independence of some of them.

The study, Children’s Rights Behind Bars, was carried out by Ursula Kilkelly, professor of law at University College Cork, and Louise Forde on behalf of the Irish Penal Reform Trust.