St Patrick’s report - Fast-track review of penal policies

Graphic pictures of a culture of bullying, fear and intimidation at St Patrick’s Institution for young offenders as portrayed in yesterday’s stark report would not be out of place in the pages of a Dickens novel.

Whatever one might feel about the unacceptable behaviour of young offenders, including some who are still legally children, there is no denying that they have human rights too, rights not just ignored but trampled under foot in St Patrick’s.

An integral part of the old Mountjoy jail complex, the facility in the heart of Dublin is an appalling place and due for demolition for years. By no stretch of the imagination can it be described as a holiday resort.