But a former governor believes rates are still far too low.
Prisoners were paid nearly €2.8 million in pocket money by the state last year.
Inmates in Midlands Prison got nearly €596,000 in total - the highest in the country.
Every prisoner gets a daily allowance of between 95 cents and €2.20, and an extra 50 cents if they work in the jail.
Former Portlaoise and Mountjoy Prison governor, John Lonergan, says the daily rates are far too low:
Over 150 Midlands Businesses On Board For LOFFA Rainbow Day
This year represents the fourth edition of the annual event.
Offaly Lotto Player Bags €150k Winning Ticket
More details to follow.
Westmeath Army Barracks To Benefit From Increased Defence Funding
The project has been allocated €1.4m.
Midlands Children Raise Over €19k On National Pyjama Day
The donations will go to autism support and eco-education initiatives.
Gardaí Investigating After Two Or Three Men Involved In Laois Burglary
The incident occurred yesterday afternoon.
Report Finds Laois Town Can Be "More Than The Electric Picnic Site"
The report is looking at the town's viability for tourism.
"Sustainability Is The Way Forward" - New Refill Mill Owner
Kim Darby took over the store yesterday.
People With Disabilities Suffering A 'Silent' Housing Crisis - Irish Wheelchair Association
It's calling on the Government to provide support for people with disabilities.
Over €3m Granted For Road Repairs In The Midlands
€40m has been announced for works across the country.
Hosting Refugee Roadshow Coming To Offaly
The event is hosted by the Helping Irish Hosts.
Teenage Unaccompanied Learner Driver Caught Travelling Twice The Speed Limit
Their vehicle has been seized.
Investigation Launched Following Laois Burglary
Gardaí are asking witnesses or anyone with information to contact them.
Land Prices Are Set To Slump After Months Of Rain
Teagasc and the Society of Chartered Surveyors have released their Agricultural Land Market Review.
'Push For Paul' Fundraiser Running Through Westmeath And Offaly Today
Paul's family and friends are seeking to raise funds, and awareness about Mitochondrial Myopathy.
Former Westmeath Psychiatric Hospital Could Have New Purpose
Refugee accommodation is one of the uses being considered.
Over Half Of Total Turbines Installed At Midlands Windfarm
It's expected to be fully operational by early next year.
"Injury, Death And Trauma" Results Of Dog Attacks On Sheep Flocks
There is a new campaign underway to urge people to be aware of their dogs at all times.
Communities Urged To Register Defibrillators In Their Area
650 are currently in the midlands alone.
Gardaí Investigating After Thrown Rock Damages Laois Car
It happened on the M7 yesterday.
Sunny Weather To Continue Over Next Few Days
Today is set to be the warmest day of the week.
