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Temporary Christmas release for 138 prisoners

The Irish Prison Service (IPS) is to grant temporary release to 138 prisoners this Christmas. 

The IPS says that many of the prisoners being released are nearing the end of their sentences, adding that the overriding concern when considering the applications is the safety of the public. 

“In addition to compassionate and humane considerations, other criteria taken into account include the nature and gravity of the offence, length of sentence served to date, prior record on temporary release, behaviour while in custody, and previous criminal history,” the service states. 

The periods of release vary from a few hours up to seven nights. 

‘Stringent conditions’ 

The IPS says that all releases are subject to “stringent conditions” and that any offender who breaks these conditions may be arrested and returned immediately to prison by the gardaí. 

“Additional specific conditions will also apply in relation to victim cases. Furthermore, all registered victims with the Irish Prison Service Victim Liaison Service will be informed in the cases where prisoners are receiving Christmas temporary release,” the organisation states. 

Temporary releases are made under the Criminal Justice Act 1960. This year’s figure is down slightly from 139 last year.