Penal reform group chief to step down

Deirdre Malone

Ms Malone, who previously worked as a barrister in private practice, has held the post since March 2014 but will now leave to take up a new opportunity. Deputy executive director Fíona Ní Chinnéide will take up the role of acting executive director from 8 February 2018.

On behalf of the IPRT board, chairperson Dr Seamus Taylor said Ms Malone had “worked tirelessly to ensure the continued positive impact of IPRT’s evidence-informed advocacy on the penal policy landscape in Ireland”.

Dr Taylor continued: “Deirdre’s commitment both to the organisation and to penal reform and the rights of people in the criminal justice system has inspired us all.

“Her significant legacy includes leadership on accountability across the penal system, and the establishment of IPRT’s ‘Progress in the Penal System’ project, a ground-breaking annual benchmarking of progress towards meeting human rights and international best practice in Ireland’s prisons. She has been an authoritative and respected voice for a group most at risk of rights infringement, and we are committed to building on this to realise the rights of prisoners and those affected by imprisonment.

“Deirdre has also worked tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of the organisation into the future, steering IPRT through its most recent strategic planning process and building the team to deliver this ambitious programme. We wish to thank Deirdre for her outstanding work and commitment to our organisation, and wish her every success in the future.

“The Board and staff of IPRT continue to work for our objectives of a fairer and more just penal system. We look forward to continuing to advance IPRT’s impact on penal policy during 2019, our 25th anniversary year.”