The ceremony took place this afternoon.
The Justice Minister has officially opened a memorial garden at Portlaoise Prison.
It's in recognition of all those who have worked there through the years.
Work began on the project in 2018 and includes a plinth and the original bell from the old Portlaoise Prison Church.
Laois/Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan says it's intended in particular to remember the part the Prison Service members played and the courage they showed during the most turbulent times of the Troubles.
Statement in Full:
“This Memorial Garden honours the Irish Prison Service staff who have served over the years in Portlaoise Prison and recognises the unique challenges they have faced, and in particular the part the Prison Service members played and the courage they showed during the most turbulent times of the Troubles, in conjunction with their colleagues from An Garda Síochána and Óglaigh na hÉireann.”
“The Irish Prison Service and Portlaoise Prison have always had a huge connect with the community of Co Laois and its surrounding counties and I believe it is very appropriate to recognise this by putting in place a symbol which recognises their contribution to the State. I would hope that this will give the community an opportunity to pause and reflect as they pass in memory of all that have served in Portlaoise Prison.”
Minister @CharlieFlanagan today officially opened the Portlaoise Prison Staff Memorial Garden.
— Department of Justice & Equality (@DeptJusticeIRL) June 23, 2020
The Memorial Garden recognises the service and contribution made by the staff of Portlaoise Prison over the years.
For more info, check out https://t.co/9Er7xBMbsJ pic.twitter.com/rzigXLOxbb
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