The figure is as high as 80% among those under 21.
More than half of prisoners re-offend within three years, according to new figures.
Inmates under 21 who were released in 2014 re-offended within three years nearly 80 per cent of the time.
But according to the Central Statistics Office, only one third of those over 50 did so.
Former Portlaoise and Mountjoy Prison governor John Lonergan isn't surprised by the new figures:
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Midlands Family Takes On Ireland’s Fittest Family Challenge
The series continues this weekend.
5K Fundraiser To Support Motor Neurone Disease Association Takes Place In Westmeath
The event is taking place tomorrow.
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Status Yellow Fog Warning Issued For Leinster, Munster And Galway
The warning will come into affect tomorrow morning.
Call For More Public Toilets Across The Midlands And Beyond
Nearly 900 public toilet facilities are located throughout the country.
Nearly 600 Patients Waiting For Hospital Beds Across Ireland
20 people are waiting in the midlands.
