IPRT in the News
As part of the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) Strategic Plan 2023-2026, one of our main goals is to campaign for a progressive criminal justice system that upholds human rights. Engagement with the media plays a large part in that as we discuss our evidence-based research, advocate for people in prison, and work to change attitudes and challenge misconceptions about people in the criminal justice system.
Below you will see a list of most of IPRT's media features including recordings of radio discussions, links to TV appearances, and access to written articles and opinion pieces. You can also listen back to long-form recorded discussions with podcast hosts on our Podcast webpage.
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. The PIPS report highlights regression in 11 areas, including humane prison conditions, time out of cell, and the use of force.
Interview with Saoirse Brady on Morning Ireland (RTE Radio One)
2nd December 2025
Executive Director Saoirse Brady interviewed on Morning Ireland, as part of coverage of the launch of the Progress in the Penal System 2024 (PIPS 2024) report.
Irish prisons slammed as overcrowded and overstretched (Newstalk FM)
2nd December 2025
A prison system overwhelmed, overstretched, and unable to uphold the fundamental rights of many people in its care’ – that is the stark messaging coming from a report from the The Irish Penal Reform Trust today. Interview with Saoirse Brady, Executive Director, Irish Penal Reform Trust.
Interview with Niamh McCormack on the Last Word with Matt Cooper (Today FM)
2nd December 2025
IPRT's Legal Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Niamh McCormack speaks to Matt Cooper on the Last Word about the findings of the IPRT's Progress in the Penal System (PIPS) 2024, highlighting the scale of prison overcrowding and its consequences for safety, dignity, rehabilitation and overall prison conditions. Niamh also explains why building more prisons is not the answer.
Coverage of Progress in the Penal System (PIPS) 2024 Launch by national broadcaster (RTE Six One News)
2nd December 2025
RTÉ’s Six One News covered the launch of the PIPS report, featuring interviews with IPRT Executive Director Saoirse Brady, as well as two speakers from the accompanying panel discussion: Robert Cullen, an MA student with lived experience of the prison system, and keynote speaker Liam Herrick, Chief Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. The segment explored key human rights concerns and provided a stark picture of what overcrowding looks like within Ireland’s prisons.
Interview with Saoirse Brady to discuss Progress in the Penal System (PIPS) 2024 report (Kildare FM)
2nd December 2025
IPRT Executive Director Saoirse Brady was interviewed by Hannah Kelly of Kildare Today on Kildare FM about the launch of the PIPS report. During the segment, Saoirse outlined the report’s key findings and described the mounting pressures caused by chronic prison overcrowding. She highlighted how inadequate space, cramped conditions, and the increasing use of mattresses on floors collectively paint a stark picture of the daily realities facing people in custody. The interview underscored the urgent need for systemic reforms and stronger cross-departmental cooperation within the government
Debate on overuse of prison is warranted
24th November 2025
IPRT Executive Director, Saoirse Brady is quoted in this report which focuses on the chronic overcrowding problem in Irish prisons with many prisoners being held in conditions that can be described as inhuman and degrading.
Conditions in Irish Jails an unwarranted extra penalty on prisoners
24th November 2025
IPRT Executive Director, Saoirse Brady is quoted in this online article which focuses on the chronic overcrowding problem in Irish prisons.
Imprisonment ‘pushing families into poverty’
20th November 2025
This article covers the launch of the IPRT report Paying the Price: The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families in Ireland which shows that the imprisonment of a parent or partner is driving families and children into poverty, with many unable to meet a minimum essential standard of living. Drawing on national and international evidence, as well as interviews and surveys with affected families, the report documents how imprisonment intensifies financial strain, social exclusion, and emotional stress—often pushing households from ‘just about managing’ into poverty.
Saoirse Brady contributes to discussion on prison complaints system
19th November 2025
Saoirse Brady, Executive Director of IPRT, added to Chief Inspector of Prisons Mark Kelly’s warning that the prisoner complaints system is “manifestly unfit for purpose.” She highlighted how fear of reprisal, poor confidentiality, and lack of trust deter prisoners from making complaints, leaving serious issues unreported and accountability weak. IPRT calls for an independent, transparent complaints mechanism to protect prisoner welfare and ensure effective oversight.
