A NEW virtual tour of one of Ireland’s biggest prisons has been launched to give an insight into the reality behind bars and the work of officers.
The fascinating insight into the Midlands Prison – where some of the country’s most dangerous sex offenders are housed among others – brings you through the committal process, inside cells, work, education and exercise areas.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan hailed the project as he launched a fresh recruitment drive for 300 prison officers.
He said: “This innovative project not only greatly enhances the public’s understanding of the work that goes on within our prisons, its release now also allows potential future recruits to come and tour their potential future workplace.”
Available on the Irish Prison Service website, the tour brings you on a step-by-step guide with a virtual officer explaining the structured life and the day-to-day activity within the system.
You can see inside a cell, as it’s explained how lags have access to a phone, along with items such as a kettle and TV.
It also walks you through the gym and prison yard, where inmates exercise while being monitored.
Other areas shown are the barber shop, the kitchen, the metal workshop, the library and surgery.
The virtual prison officer talks through rules and also explains how life in jail works.
This includes the education available, and the pay rates carried out by enhanced, standard and basic regime prisoners, ranging from €2.54 a day to €1.
The Irish Prison Service, told how the tour highlights the work done by officers, giving an insight for potential recruits.
Director General Caron McCaffrey said: “The Recruit Prison Officer campaign is a vital opportunity to attract individuals who are committed to public service and rehabilitation, and who will play a central role in maintaining safe and secure prison environments.
“The incredible work of Prison Officers is complex and often hidden from public view, but our annual competition and the launch of the virtual tour allow us the opportunity to let the public see the teamwork, integrity, potential, safety and support that Prison Officers not only offer to prisoners, but to their colleagues as well.
“I wish to commend all those involved in delivering the Virtual Tour, an innovative and informative project that highlights the professionalism and dedication of our staff across the prison estate.”
‘REWARDING CAREERS’
Applications for the role of a prison officer opens on publicjobs.ie from July 4 and will run until August 1.
Minister O’Callaghan added: “The Government is committed to ensuring that all prison officers are empowered and equipped to lead rewarding careers that make a real difference.
“This year’s campaign is a vital part of a much wider investment in our prison systems.
“Prison officers are at the heart of our justice system and have the potential to positively impact the lives of some of Ireland’s most vulnerable people, as well as Irish society as a whole.”
