School at Castlerea Prison closed for nearly 40 days
The school at Castlerea Prison was closed for almost 40 days earlier this year, the Dáil has heard.
The school at Castlerea Prison was closed for almost 40 days earlier this year, the Dáil has heard.
Responding to a question from Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív, Justice Minister Helen McEntee said that Irish Prison Service provided a wide range of rehabilitative programmes.
“The average monthly school attendance in Castlerea Prison for 2023 ranged from 18% - 29% of the prison population. The school was closed due to staff shortages for 36 days in the period January 2023 to August 2023,” the minister said.
“School closures are also impacted by the overall increase in numbers resulting in a significant increase in the use of Castlerea Prison staff to escort people for court appearances and/or hospital appointments.”
She added that Castlerea Prison had recently reviewed and amended its regime management plan (RMP) in order to address the issue of school closures.
“This has resulted in fewer closures since September 2023,” Minister McEntee said.
