Irish prison system breaking point as shock report details ‘lack of dignity’ & ‘inhumane’ conditions amid overcrowding (The Irish Sun)
2nd December 2025
In this article, the IPRT warns that Ireland’s prison system is at breaking point due to severe overcrowding. Its latest report highlights regression in 11 areas, including humane prison conditions, time out of cell, and the use of force.
IPRT Executive Director Saoirse Brady said over 600 people are sleeping on mattresses on the floor beside toilets, describing the system as “overwhelmed, overstretched, and inhumane.” She emphasized that building more space alone will not solve the crisis and that investment should focus on preventing reoffending through community support and diversion programs.
The report notes that the prison population has reached 5,700, with almost two-thirds of inmates forced to use toilets in front of others. IPRT calls for urgent systemic reform, including better support for prisoners and greater emphasis on community-based alternatives.
Related items:
- IPRT Letter to the Minister for Justice regarding the proposed reform of the District Court Criminal Legal Aid Scheme
- Report into death at Midlands Prison 'extremely distressing' to read
- Building more prisons is not the answer to overcrowding The Irish Penal Reform Trust outlines a more progressive and cost-effective approach
- Prison officers to be issued with body cameras, batons amid rise in violence
- Prison overcrowding group to meet after capacity crisis warning
