Ban on sex offenders’ early release criticised

The Inspector of Prisons has strongly criticised the blanket ban on early release for sex offenders following the death of a severely ill elderly offender in prison.

Doctors and prison bosses had repeatedly recommended the 82-year-old be released on health grounds, but this was turned down because of an unwritten policy refusing temporary release to sex offenders.

Inspector, Judge Michael Reilly, also heavily criticised gardaí, saying there was “no foundation whatsoever” to their submission to prison officials that the man presented a risk if released.