24th October 2024
On 24 October 2024, IPRT Executive Director Saoirse Brady spoke to Andrea Gilligan on Newstalk Lunchtime Live in response to the UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood saying that she believes “prison isn’t working” for women. Ms Mahmood pointed out how, after serving a short custodial sentence, a woman is “significantly more likely” to reoffend than one given a non-custodial sentence.
Saoirse confirmed that we are seeing similar trends for women in prison in Ireland. She spoke about alternatives to prison that will be suitable for many people and that result in better outcomes for everyone.
As part of the discussion, Gillian O'Donnell from Uisce - Advocacy Services For People Who Use Drugs In Ireland, reflected on the impact of imprisonment from her own experience as well as laying out solutions.
Respect for rights in the penal system with prison as a last resort.