Range of issues said to be impacting Irish prisons

It is hoped that more can be done to tackle a range of significant issues which are severely impacting Irish prisons.

Overcrowding and the shipment of illegal drugs are two issues which have long blighted the service.

The daily average number of prisoners in Irish jails rose by 11.1 per cent on the previous year's figures.

The Irish Prison Officers Association has requested a meeting with the Justice Minister with the hope of alleviating the issues currently faced by the service.

Its Deputy General Secretary and Dromahair native, Gabriel Keaveny says it’s a matter of urgency.