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.
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.
Partners of prisoners should get similar social welfare assistance as other lone parents, says report
19th November 2025
This article discusses the launch of the IPRT report "Paying the Price: The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families", with a particular focus on its recommendations for improving social welfare supports. These include revising eligibility rules for the One Parent Family Payment, updating the payment guidelines, and removing the current six-month waiting period.
Supports sought for children of imprisoned parents
19th November 2025
Further coverage of the IPRT report Paying the Price: The Cost and Impact of Imprisonment on Families in Ireland, which details the severe financial and emotional hardship experienced by families when a parent is imprisoned. The article focuses on the report's research into fragmented and inadequate State supports, which often leave families dependent on charities. Additional challenges identified include difficulties maintaining family contact, childcare pressures, housing insecurity, and the wider impact on children’s wellbeing.
Irish Times Editorial - Prison Conditions unacceptable and inhumane
17th November 2025
The editorial highlights worsening prison conditions, including overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and failures flagged by the CPT and the Inspector of Prisons. It argues that long-term reform - not just new prison spaces - is urgently needed. IPRT is referenced in the piece as a key voice calling for systemic change.
How do we address the issue of prison overcrowding?
16th November 2025
Saoirse Brady joined Anton Savage and guests including the former governor of Mountjoy, John Lonergan to discuss the overcrowding crisis in Irish prisons and potential pathways toward solutions. The conversation reflects a range of perspectives, including operational, lived experience and reform-focused views.
Niamh McCormack discusses overcrowding and deplorable conditions in Irish prisons
7th November 2025
Discussion following the publication of the Office of the Inspector of Prison's Annual Report 2024
Newstalk Breakfast
7th November 2025
Following the publication of the Office of the Inspector of Prison's Annual report 2024, Saoirse Brady discussed the findings on Newstalk Breakfast.
