IPRT Submission to the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights on the fourth Universal Periodic Review of Ireland

13th April 2026

This submission by IPRT to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights forms part of Ireland’s fourth Universal Periodic Review (UPR). It examines key human rights issues within the Irish penal system, with a focus on oversight, prison conditions, mental healthcare, homelessness, and pre-trial detention, and sets out targeted recommendations for reform.

Ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (‘OPCAT’)
IPRT highlights Ireland’s continued failure to ratify OPCAT, despite commitments made during previous review cycles. IPRT calls for ratification without delay and emphasises that the Inspection of Places of Detention Bill 2022 must be placed on a priority list for publication and enactment (not merely priority drafting). The establishment of a fully independent and adequately resourced National Preventive Mechanism is identified as essential to ensuring effective oversight of places of detention.

Prison conditions and overcrowding
IPRT outlines a worsening overcrowding crisis, with prison numbers significantly exceeding capacity. This is leading to unsafe and degrading conditions, including poor sanitation, lack of privacy, increased violence, and excessive time spent locked in cells. High levels of short sentences and limited use of alternatives to custody are key drivers. IPRT calls for measures including setting maximum occupancy limits and legislating for prison as a last resort.

Mental healthcare in prisons
IPRT raises serious concerns about the lack of adequate mental health services in prisons, including long waiting lists and insufficient access to appropriate care. The use of restrictive environments, such as close supervision cells, for people with mental illness is highlighted as particularly problematic. The submission calls for increased diversion to appropriate healthcare settings, improved services, and full use of available capacity in forensic mental health facilities.

Homelessness and community supports
IPRT highlights the strong link between imprisonment and homelessness, noting that some individuals remain in custody due to a lack of housing options, while others are released into homelessness. This creates barriers to accessing essential supports and increases the risk of reoffending. IPRT calls for a coordinated, multi-agency approach to ensure that no one leaves prison without appropriate accommodation.

Rates of pre-trial detention
IPRT identifiies rising levels of pre-trial detention as a significant contributor to prison overcrowding. While youth bail supervision schemes have proven effective, there is currently no equivalent scheme for adults. IPRT calls for the introduction and proper resourcing of an adult Bail Supervision Scheme, alongside greater use of non-custodial pre-trial options.

Read IPRT's full submission here.