Penal reform trust criticises privatisations

The Irish Penal Reform Trust has criticised Justice Minister Michael McDowell’s plans to privatise two prisons.

Mr McDowell has announced his intention to privatise the running of Loughran House and Shelton Abbey as part of a dispute with prison officers over their annual overtime bill.

Rick Lines, the executive director of the Penal Reform Trust, today challenged the minister to provide evidence that the move will reduce costs and increase efficiency.

"There is no evidence internationally that privatisation is actually an effective way to go to reduce prison costs or increase prison efficiency," Mr Lines said.