Numbers have soared in 2026.
Overcrowding in Laois prisons has stayed at over 120% capacity every day so far in 2026.
The latest figures from the Irish Prison Service shows the Midlands Prison has stayed at around 121% capacity since New Year's Day, with 120 prisoners currently on mattresses.
While the numbers at Portlaoise are remaining at 135%, with 28 inmates without a bed.
An extra 250 beds were fastracked by Government last December for Midlands, to boost its almost 900 prisoner capacity, while that figure stands at 225 for Portlaoise.
Laois Childcare Centre Confident Of Reopening After Administrative Closure
Nearly 400 First Time Buyers Approved Under 2025 Q4 Home Scheme
Laois School Community Walks Together To Achieve €100k Goal
TUS Midlands To Launch Joint Institute With Foshan University In China
Senator Calls For Tougher Penalties After Spike In Tool Thefts
Traffic Disruptions Expected As Farmers Set To Protest Mercosur Deal
Midlands Transport Firm And Director To Stand Trial Over Fatal Workplace Accident
Mercosur Trade Deal Approved By EU Countries
HSE Expects Midlands Hospice Project To Proceed Despite Potential Appeals
Westmeath Matchmaker Signals January As Best Time To Find Love
Anniversary Mass For Ashling Murphy Taking Place This Weekend
Appeals Board Hearing On Enoch Burke Dismissal Postponed After Legal Challenge
Offaly Town To Host Vigil For Gaza Tomorrow
EU Council Votes On Mercosur Today
Beef Quality Under Scrutiny As EU Mercosur Deal Nears Vote
Esker Arts Centre Receives €125k Boost For Development
Government Launches €100m Push To Grow Chip Industry
Uisce Eireann To Carry Out Works In Laois
Offaly Sees Second Highest Flu Rate In Ireland Over Festive Period
Calls For Independent Body For Planning Appeals After Meat Plant Halt