Gannon criticises “inhumane” Irish prison system
2nd December 2025
Ireland's prison system is in crisis, with overcrowding continuing to spiral out of control, according to Social Democrats justice spokesperson Gary Gannon. His comments followed IPRT's description of the system as “overstretched, overwhelmed and inhumane.”
Gannon highlighted that the prison population has grown to 5,700, with more than 600 people sleeping on mattresses on the floor—a 300% increase in a year. He noted that nearly two-thirds of prisoners must use toilets in front of others, and floor-sleeping inmates face serious hygiene issues.
The TD emphasized that simply expanding prison capacity will not solve systemic problems, as short custodial sentences do not reduce reoffending. He called for properly resourced youth diversion schemes, community sanctions, bail support schemes, and greater investment in the Probation Service.
Gannon also pointed out a 55% increase in prison deaths in 2024 and urged the Justice Minister to take a different approach to reform Ireland’s penal system, including better data, compliance tracking, and community-based alternatives.
Related items:
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- Irish Prison System overwhelmed and overstretched new report states
- Ireland's prison system 'inhumane', says Irish Penal Reform Trust
