Judge Keenan Johnson voiced the comments as he sentenced 39-year-old Sifoso Mpobole.
A Westmeath judge is describing prison conditions as "unconscionable and inhumane."
Judge Keenan Johnson made the remarks in sentencing 39 year old Sifoso Mpobole, of Alverno Drive, Willow Park, Athlone, in Westmeath today.
Mpobole had pleaded guilty at Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court to money laundering involving €62,100 in crime proceeds.
Judge Johnson is imposing 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three-year, six-month prison sentence.
He welcomed new legislation increasing the limit to 480 hours, and says he lobbied for a 600-hour ceiling because of current prison conditions, where three prisoners are sometimes held in a single cell with an open toilet.
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