Caron McCaffrey appointed to head Irish Prison Service

Caron McCaffrey

Ms McCaffrey, the first woman to lead the IPS, has worked in the justice sector for 18 years and was latterly director of corporate services.

She is a graduate of Maynooth University and Dublin City University, holds an advanced diploma in applied employment law from the King’s Inns, and recently graduated from UCD Smurfit Business School with a postgraduate diploma in corporate governance.

Welcoming her appointment, Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said: “I warmly congratulate Caron McCaffrey on her appointment to this important role within the overall justice and equality sector. The Irish Prison Service is a vital component of the criminal justice system and fulfils a challenging remit on behalf of the community.

“Caron has vast experience in the IPS working in a variety of leadership roles over the past 12 years. I look forward to working with her as the new Director General and wish her well in this demanding role. Her leadership will be essential in building on the significant advances made in recent years, and in continuing to embed and drive further improvements in how we provide safe, secure, humane and rehabilitative custody for people sent to prison in line with international human rights standards.”

Ms McCaffrey said: “I am honoured to be appointed to the role of Director General of the Irish Prison Service. The Irish Prison Service is a unique and important frontline Service made up of over 3,200 dedicated and committed men and women with diverse skills, backgrounds and experiences. There are many challenges we face, now and into the future, but I am confident that we will continue to meet those challenges and grow together as an organisation based on excellence through our people.

“I also look forward to working with my colleagues in the Department of Justice and Equality, the wider criminal justice system and other key statutory and non-statutory stakeholders as we strive to deliver the best service possible, to achieve the best outcomes for those in our care and to contribute to a safer Ireland.”

Mr Flanagan thanked Don Culliton for serving as acting director-general over previous weeks.