The Irish Prison Service has confirmed that what they are calling a ‘minor’ protest has taken place in the Midlands Prison.
The incident happened at around 4pm inside the prison when a group of 18 prisoners climbed over the bars around a landing and stood for a time on the protective netting separating the floors.
It is understood that their action was a protest against the new security measures in place at the prison, which the Prison Service say are yielding success.
A spokesman for the service said staff dealt with the incident professionally and brought it quickly to a conclusion without any injuries to people or damage to property.
Its understood the protest was sparked when a female visitor to one of the prisoners was stopped by prison officers, and subsequently arrested by gardaí on suspicion of trying to smuggle in drugs.
Its understood that those involved have been separated to different parts of the prison complex as punishment.
