Naomi Long

Under the pre-release testing process, prisoners are initially tested under the supervision of prison staff, progressing to periods of unaccompanied release before potentially progressing to living and working in the community.

The majority of prisoners who are subject to pre-release testing have been committed to prison for long periods and for serious offences.

Naomi Long, the justice minister, has asked the director general of the Northern Ireland Prison Service to examine the current process of pre-release testing arrangements and to identify any areas where improvements can be made.

“Pre-release testing is a vital part of rehabilitation and resettlement back into society, particularly for those who have served long sentences,” Mrs Long said.

“Most prisoners go through the various stages of PRT testing successfully and reintegrate back into the community, however a small number continually fail or abuse the process by going unlawfully at large.

“I have met with victims of crime and political representatives and share their concerns regarding that small number who do not take the opportunities afforded to them.

“I have therefore asked the director general of the Northern Ireland Prison Service to consider the current approach to pre-release testing, including whether any further steps can be taken when an individual repeatedly absconds or fails to comply with their conditions.”