Penal reform group urges new prison service head to maintain ‘momentum for prison reform’

Penal reform group urges new prison service head to maintain 'momentum for prison reform'

Deirdre Malone

The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) has called on the incoming director-general of the Irish Prison Service (IPS) to maintain “the momentum for prison reform”.

Caron McCaffrey was last week appointed the next IPS director-general, making her the first woman to lead the prison service.

Deirdre Malone, executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust, said she “congratulates Caron McCaffrey on her appointment and looks forward to continuing to work with her to reform the penal system during her tenure”.

Ms Malone added: “Her appointment is a positive opportunity for the IPS to redouble its commitment to reform of the penal system.

“We look forward to engaging robustly with the new Director General, along with all other stakeholders, to ensure the momentum for prison reform not only survives, but thrives during her leadership.”

The IPRT continues to aim towards the elimination of solitary confinement; the ratification of OPCAT; the establishment of an independent complaints mechanism, such as a Prisoner Ombudsman; and the full implementation of the Irish Prison Service and Probation Service Joint Strategy for Women who Offend.

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