The Head of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, Ronnie Armour, today welcomed the findings of a new report on Magilligan Prison.
The report, which criminal justice inspectors said is the most positive produced on a prison in Northern Ireland, was conducted by the Criminal Justice Inspectorate NI (CJINI) and Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP), and carried out at the medium-security prison near Limavady.
Commenting on the report’s findings, Mr Armour said: “This latest report demonstrates the progress which has been made at Magilligan Prison. By creating opportunities to improve skills, employability and self-confidence, those in our care are encouraged to address their offending behaviour and work towards playing a constructive role when they return to the community.
“Importantly, the report highlights that rehabilitation is truly at the heart of all we do at Magilligan Prison, with resettlement work identified as a significant strength. This, along with the strong work we are doing to support men in maintaining relationships with their children, families and friends, is helping to support people to change their offending behaviour and, hopefully, build safer communities.
Commending the work of the Governors and staff at Magilligan Prison who have helped to develop a progressive custodial establishment, Mr Armour added: “Today’s positive report has been delivered through the leadership of former Governor Austin Treacy and the staff at the prison. It is vital that work is built upon under the current Governor Gary Milling, his senior team and everyone working to support people in our care.
“The report also highlights where Magilligan can continue to progress, in particular in supporting vulnerable prisoners and those with self-harm or mental health issues. As ever, we will continue to work to ensure that all those in our care have the support they need.”
For more on the important rehabilitation work ongoing at Magilligan Prison, visit the Department of Justice Twitter account, @justice_ni
Notes to editors:
1. A copy of the report is available at: Magilligan Prison 2017 Inspection Report
2. Magilligan Prison is a medium to low security prison which holds male prisoners with six years or less to serve and who meet the relevant security classification.
3. At 11 December 2017 there were 439 prisoners at Magilligan Prison.
4. For all media enquiries, please contact the DOJ Press Office on 028 9052 6444. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.