Annex 1
Submission to review on safety at Maghaberry
THE NORTHERN IRELAND ASSOCIATION FOR THE
CARE AND RESETTLEMENT OF OFFENDERS
NIACRO currently provides services within all
three prison establishments; a Prison Transport Service to all
institutions and the Visitors Centre at Magilligan.
NIACRO is concerned that the advances made to
progress a resettlement agenda are being undermined.
NIACRO was always aware that the issue of separation
could re-emerge in the period of transition and raised this appropriately
almost a year ago with the NI Prison Service. NIACRO advocates
the safe and humane containment of all prisoners.
* NIACRO's concerns are underpinned by a regard
for our Duty to Care procedures and qualitative Health and Safety
practices.
The critical concern is how the present crisis
impacts on prison staff, prisoners and their families. We are
particularly concerned with the impact on resettlement and what
is required from within the prison establishment prior to release.
We advocate in respect of this situation that
scheduled prisoners are separated or isolated from other prisoners
and held appropriately. This management arrangement would include
effective maintenance of prison service authority. We would suggest
that the experiences of other jurisdictions be explored.
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