Naomi Long

The two independent review reports are intended to provide assurance or highlight issues which need addressed in advance of a full inspection.

Ms Long said: “Inspections play a vital role in holding us to account and offering scrutiny and focus on issues to be addressed. They help ensure those in prisons are supported throughout their sentence in a safe environment, one where rehabilitation can be facilitated.

“I am pleased that inspectors recognise the progress made at both Maghaberry and Magilligan, however I fully appreciate that there are areas where more work is required.”

Ms Long continued by highlighting the challenges being faced by prisons in Northern Ireland.

She said: “We have a rising prison population, many with complex needs including addiction and poor mental health. It is a sad fact that people in prison are more likely to have a history of drug use than people in the wider community.

“Prison staff work tirelessly to disrupt the flow of illegal substances into the jails, as well as supporting recovery from addiction. These issues make supporting the vital work of rehabilitation increasingly difficult.”

Ms Long said: “However Prisons are making progress. Since their introduction in March last year, the X-Ray Body Scanners have had a major impact on stemming the flow of drugs and illegal substances coming into prisons. This helps to keep both staff and prisoners safer. The Prison Service is committed to maintaining strong partnerships with colleagues in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and the Department of Health, particularly in seeking to disrupt the trade of medication within prisons.”

She concluded: “Substance use, addiction and poor mental health are intrinsically linked and there needs to be a whole government approach to tackling these issues. I want to acknowledge and thank prison staff who perform a very difficult role. Their commitment and dedication supports prisoners to turn away from their offending behaviour and to leave prison, more prepared to positively contribute to the community.”