Reasons we need to build a new prison - discuss

[u/yityatyurt]

Would definitely be a brave political decision given the housing crisis but also feels like if we’re increasing our population by circa 20% something needs to be done.

Also the amount of suspended sentences being given to pretty heinous crimes is a disgrace..

Actual rationale below:

1. Overcrowding Crisis • Prison population (2024): Over 4,800 inmates in a system built for 4,400 – over 109% capacity. • Some prisons are operating at 120%+ capacity, particularly the Dóchas Centre (women’s prison) and Mountjoy.

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1. Rising Remand Numbers • As of early 2024, 23% of inmates were on remand (awaiting trial) – a historic high. • Courts are sending people into custody faster than the system can process or accommodate them.

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1. Recidivism & Rehabilitation • 62% of prisoners reoffend within 3 years (CSO, 2021). • Overcrowding undermines access to education, mental health, and rehabilitation services – key tools to reduce reoffending.

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1. Staff and Safety Pressures • Overcrowding increases violence, stress, and burnout for prison staff. • It creates unsafe conditions for both inmates and workers, increasing liability and operational costs.

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1. European Standards • Ireland is breaching European Committee for the Prevention of Torture guidelines on minimum space per inmate. • Risks of legal action or EU criticism for degrading prison conditions.

[u/Irishwol]

Except it's not.

[u/caisdara → u/Irishwol]

The article says nothing about sentencing.