Why prisoners’ families need support

Children and families of prisoners are critical to the re-integration of their loved ones back into society, says Fiona Donson.

THE recent spotlight shone on the conditions in Cork Prison is most welcome. A public debate on the difficulties experienced by the inmates due to the current conditions is important, not least because it can dispel the often held public belief that prison is a holiday camp.

One critical issue which received little attention was the impact of the physical institution on prisoners’ families. While there has been some recognition given to the fact that visiting conditions are “known to be inadequate”, this barely captures the reality of prison visits for families.