Praise for prison plan amid capacity concerns

Penal system reformers have praised the construction of a new Cork prison — but are concerned about its increased capacity and plans to double up cells.

The prison, the subject of an Irish Examiner’s special report on Tuesday last, is nearing completion and will open at the end of the year.

The prison will have 169 cells and a capacity of 310 — although prison authorities expect to house between 250 and 275 inmates. All cells will have their own toilet, wash basin, and shower.