Prison service plans €30m rollout of body-worn cameras

A tender published by the service outlines plans for a 10-year contract covering the supply, maintenance and operation of a body-worn camera system across Ireland’s prison estate.

The rollout is due to begin at Mountjoy Prison in Dublin from July before being extended to other prisons, subject to funding.

According to the tender, the contract has a maximum value of €30m and includes associated accessories, software and support services.

An Irish Prison Service spokesman described the project as a “significant undertaking”.

The move follows a pilot scheme in Portlaoise Prison in 2025. The spokesman said the trial resulted in a “small decrease in disciplinary reports” and was “found to be a positive influence within the prison environment”.

“The rollout of body-worn cameras was well received by staff and contributed to a safer working and living environment,” he said.

Last year, there were 132 assaults on prison service staff.

The Prison Officers’ Association welcomed the plans, saying it had long advocated for the introduction of the technology.

“Body-worn cameras have the potential to act as a de-escalation tool, helping to encourage calmer interactions and contributing to a safer environment for both staff and prisoners,” a spokesman said.

The rollout comes as An Garda Síochána introduces body-worn cameras across the force under a separate €150m programme running over 15 years.