Play
Stop
9.00 News: Paschal Sheehy, Southern Editor, reports from Cobh on the planned closure of the prison
Play
Stop
6.01 News: Paschal Sheehy, Southern Editor, reports on the beginning of the transfer of prisoners from Spike Island Prison ahead of its closure
The Prison Service has begun transferring prisoners from Spike Island in Cork, as part of a plan to close the jail by the end of the month.
The Prison Officers' Association described the move as provocative, given that talks aimed at resolving the prisons' overtime bill are continuing.
Traders in Cobh in Co Cork say the planned closure of the prison on Spike Island will have a devastating effect on their business.
Seven prisoners were transferred from Spike Island to St Patrick's Institution in Dublin today.
It is expected the transfer of the remaining 40 prisoners will be completed in ten days.
Ninety staff at Spike Island are also expected to be transferred to Cork and Limerick prisons.
