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 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? Newstalk FM
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 (Galway Bay FM)
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.
Newstalk News
7th November 2025
Newstalk syndicated its news bulletins featuring the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT), which were carried by approximately 10 media outlets nationwide.
Saoirse Brady Speaks to RTÉ on Deaths in Custody and Overcrowding Crisis following the publication of the Office of Inspector of Prison's Annual Report
7th November 2025
Following the publication of the latest OIP report, Saoirse spoke with RTE about the report’s findings on deaths in custody and the continuing challenge of prison overcrowding.
IPRT Responds to OIP Report Highlighting Record Deaths and Prison Overcrowding
7th November 2025
The Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) said the latest Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) annual report “paints a bleak picture of prison conditions in 2024”. The report reveals that Irish prisons are at breaking point, with severe overcrowding and a record number of deaths in custody.
Saoirse Brady Discusses Prison Spending and Community Sanctions on Drivetime - RTE Radio One
24th October 2025
IPRT's Executive Director Saoirse Brady was interviewed after it emerged that the annual cost of keeping one person in prison has risen to €99,000 - an increase of almost 12%, according to figures shared with the Dáil’s Public Accounts Committee.
Rehabilitated offenders should be able to move on with their lives - that includes jobs (thejournal.ie)
16th October 2025
IPRT Executive Director Saoirse Brady writes about the barriers faced by people with convictions even long after their sentence is served.
Niamh McCormack joined Deirdre Walsh on the Radio Kerry Talkabout programme to discuss rehabilitation for people with convictions
16th October 2025
IPRT's Legal Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Niamh McCormack, joined Deirdre Walsh on the Radio Kerry Talkabout programme on 16 October 2025 to discuss rehabilitation for people with convictions.
