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Irish Penal Reform Trust

Inmates still earn just 50 cents for a day's work in Irish prisons - Dublin Inquirer

27th March 2026

This article highlights the financial struggles prisoners face in Ireland, with low gratuities and limited earnings making it difficult to buy basics or support themselves and their families. IPRT emphasised that these inadequate payments, combined with high costs and barriers to addiction and mental health supports, leave prisoners vulnerable and reliant on family assistance. IPRT called for fairer rates to ensure prisoners can cover essential needs, participate meaningfully in prison work, and prepare for life after release.

Read the full article here

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