A recruitment campaign aimed at hiring 300 new prison officers in full-time positions is under way.
The new officers will help address staffing shortfalls amid an overcrowding crisis among the prison population, which recently exceeded 5,000 in a system with bed capacity for over 4,600.
The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) has claimed that overcrowding in prisons has been persistent since 2023 leading to unacceptable, degrading and dehumanising conditions across Irish prisons.
The highest level of overcrowding is at Limerick's Women's Prison, which is currently 48% over capacity.
Eighty-three women are in custody there, but the prison has a bed capacity of just 56.
As of yesterday, 5,477 people are in prison custody, equating to the prison estate being at 118% capacity.
The IRPT said many prisoners are forced to sleep on mattresses on the floor, which is said to increase tensions in ''inhumane and degrading conditions''.
The Irish Prison Service's capital budget for 2025 is €53 million, which officials say is being used to create additional spaces.
Capacity increases in prison system
Over recent years, capacity has been increased by in excess of 300 spaces.
"This year's campaign is a vital part of a much wider investment in our prison systems.'' said Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan.
''Prison officers are at the heart of our justice system and have the potential to positively impact the lives of some of Ireland’s most vulnerable people, as well as Irish society as a whole," he added.
The Irish prison service has encouraged anyone looking for a varied and fulfilling career to apply.
''The Government is committed to ensuring that all prison officers are empowered and equipped to lead rewarding careers that make a real difference," said Minister O'Callaghan.
The Director General of the Irish Prison Service said the latest recruitment campaign will run until 1 August, 2025.
''The incredible work of prison officers is complex and often hidden from public view, but our annual competition and the launch of the virtual tour allow us the opportunity to let the public see the team work and the integrity, potential, safety and support that prison officers not only offer to prisoners, but to their colleagues as well.'' said Caron McCaffrey.
Eligible candidates will undergo a comprehensive selection process, including written assessments, physical fitness tests, interviews, and background checks.
Successful candidates will receive extensive training to equip them with the skills required for the role.
The 2024 recruitment campaign attracted more than 1,500 applicants and 271 prison officers joining the Irish Prison Service.
Virtual prison tour launched
A virtual prison tour through an Irish Prison Service location has also been launched.
The interactive web-based virtual tool, believed to be the first of its kind, guides visitors or incoming prisoners on what to expect when visiting a prison location.
