The annual “environmental allowance” will be paid into salaries by July 2020, subject to necessary business case approval.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “One of the first visits I undertook on taking up my post was to see the vital work carried out by our healthcare staff in prison settings.

“As with many of my visits, I was struck by the dedication of the individuals delivering a unique service in difficult circumstances.

“I promised that day that I would look into the provision of an environmental allowance in recognition of the incomparable service that is being provided within our prison settings. I am delighted to confirm that I have authorised an allowance of £1,300 per annum to all prison healthcare staff.”

He added: “I have no doubt prisons can be a challenging environment for healthcare staff to work in. I hope this allowance goes some way to demonstrating my appreciation for the professionalism and dedication to maintaining this vital healthcare service.”