Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton TD, has welcomed the official opening of the new Cork Prison by an Tanaiste and Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD. The total cost of the development of this major piece of public infrastructure was €44 million.
“The new Cork Prison has been in operation since 12th February and is a very modern facility. Its innovative facilities have much improved the daily environment for staff and prisoners and will allow the prison to better serve its purpose of rehabilitating prisoners”, said Minister Stanton.
“New educational, work and training facilities are far superior to what was available in the old prison and include a state-of-the-art kitchen, bakery and laundry. Recreational and outdoor training facilities, including a new horticultural area will all contribute to prisoners learning new skills to assist reintegration into the workforce on release.
“The recreational and educational training facilities and the new visiting facility, improved accommodation and dining areas are all designed to create an environment that supports the rehabilitation of prisoners while also achieving security for our communities.
“I was very pleased to be present at the official opening of the new Cork Prison. The former Cork Prison was very outdated with overcrowding and safety issues that needed to be addressed. The improvements carried out in Cork form part of the capital investment commitment in the Programme for Government to develop a modern, progressive and rehabilitative prison network.
