Jim O'Callaghan

The service’s 2024 annual report showcases progress progress in rehabilitation, infrastructure, and staff development, as well as challenges posed by the continued rise in the prison population.

The daily average number of prisoners in custody rose to 4,941, a 7.8 per cent increase (+359) compared to 4,582 in 2023.

At the end of the year, the prison population stood at 5,001, with 213 prisoners sleeping on mattresses, up 156 per cent from the previous year.

A total of 8,704 individuals were committed to custody in 2024, a 9.6 per cent increase (+766) compared to 2023. Of these, 77 per cent of sentence committals were for 12 months or less.

An increase in the number of judges and the number of court sittings has placed pressure on prison capacity, according to the service.

Caron McCaffrey, director general of the Irish Prison Service, said: “The past two years have demanded a great deal from the Irish Prison Service, perhaps more than any point in recent memory.

“We’ve faced a steep rise in committals, longer sentences, and population levels that have stretched our capacity far beyond its limits. These pressures have not only tested our operations, they’ve tested those who work and live in our prisons.

“But even under strain, we’ve kept our focus: investing in modern infrastructure, and supporting our staff.

“Our work is not just about managing numbers, it’s about transforming lives, promoting rehabilitation, reduce re-offending and help individuals lead law-abiding lives in turn creating safer communities.

“That’s our mission, our purpose that drives us, even on our most challenging days.”

Key developments during 2024 included the rollout of the Recovery College Framework, the launch of the Prisoner Online Payments System (POPS), and the expansion of vocational and educational programmes across the estate.

The service also deepened its focus on staff wellbeing through the Employee Experience Framework, which aims to foster a culture of care and professional growth.

Jim O’Callaghan, minister for justice, home affairs and migration, said: “I welcome the publication of the Irish Prison Service’s 2024 annual report.

“This detailed account highlights the dedication of prison staff and the progress made in rehabilitation, education, and care, despite significant operational challenges. I commend the staff and management of the Prison Service for their commitment to dignity and safety across the prison estate.

“As minister for justice, I will continue working with the Prison Service to deliver vital infrastructure and ensure that our prison system remains fit for purpose, grounded in fairness, security, and meaningful reintegration.”

The Irish Prison Service was allocated €525 million in the government’s 2025 budget, an 18 per cent increase on the previous year.

A €495 million commitment under the national development plan will fund major infrastructure projects at Castlerea, Cloverhill, Mountjoy, Portlaoise, Wheatfield, Midlands, Dóchas Centre, and the former Cork prison site.