The redevelopment of the prison, aimed at increasing capacity and improving facilities, was announced in 2013 and was originally set to be completed by 2020, but has been delayed several times due to funding problems.

Speaking on her first visit to Magilligan this week, Ms Long said she is fully supportive of the redevelopment, but acknowledged it is “dependent on the provision of capital funding, which will be considered as part of wider Executive’s budget discussions”.

The newly-elected justice minister said the retention of Magilligan and its redevelopment “are very much part of Northern Ireland Prison Service future projects”.

Ms Long added: “I want to see Magilligan build on the progress it has made over recent years. I have had the opportunity to speak with the Governor and his team about the initiatives they have developed to support and challenge the people in their care as they work towards resettlement back into the community.

“But further progress is needed, in particular in supporting vulnerable people. As ever, we will continue to work to ensure that all those in our care have the support they need.”