Laois TD Calls For Action To Tackle Prison Overcrowding

Laois TD Brian Stanley is highlighting the issue of overcrowding specifically in Midlands Prison.

A Laois TD is describing ongoing overcrowding in prisons as 'a pressure cooker.'

Independent rep Brian Stanley says the situation in Midlands Prison in the county is unsafe for both vulnerable prisoners and staff.

Figures from the Irish Prison Service show it's operating at 128% capacity today, with 1,211 prisoners and a bed capacity of 891.

Portlaoise Prison is at 135 per cent capacity, with 317 prisoners and 228 beds available. 

Deputy Stanley points out that the Government has committed to delivering an additional 1,500 prison places.

He says the current situation is unsustainable:

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