Laois Prisons Running At Over 120% Capacity

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.

More from Midlands News

Download Our App