Labour hits out at prison closure

The Labour Party has described the Government's decision to close Shanganagh open prison as the most backward step ever taken on penal policy in Ireland.

Shanganagh Castle in south Dublin is the only open prison in Ireland for young offenders between the ages of 16 and 21. It houses around 20 inmates.

Labour spokesman Joe Costello said the decision to close the facility will see young offenders back on the streets without having received any professional help and will probably lead to a rise in crime.