IPRT Responds to OIP Report Highlighting Record Deaths and Prison Overcrowding
7th November 2025
The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) said the latest Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) annual report “paints a bleak picture of prison conditions in 2024”. The report reveals that Irish prisons are at breaking point, with severe overcrowding and a record number of deaths in custody.
IPRT expressed serious concern that the situation continues to deteriorate, warning that expanding prison capacity is not a sustainable solution. Instead, the organisation is calling for urgent action to reduce the prison population, improve living conditions, and ensure the safety and dignity of all those in custody.
Related items:
- A System at Breaking Point - Connaught Tribune
- Worsening safety situation' in Cork Prison sparks call for action (EchoLive.ie)
- Ireland's Prison system is completely 'inhumane' claims Irish Penal Reform Trust (theLiberal.ie)
- Progress in the Penal System (PIPS) 2024
- Prisons Full to Bursting - Irish Daily Mail
