Justice Minister Naomi Long has emphasised that supporting Northern Ireland’s prison staff and those in custody is more important than ever.

Marking the start of Prisons Week (12–18 October), the Minister stated that the spiritual, emotional, social, and practical needs of both staff and prisoners must be prioritised to achieve real transformation for offenders and sustainably reduce re-offending.

Minister Long acknowledged that the delivery of rehabilitation has become increasingly challenging due to the rising prison population and the resulting strain on staff resources and support services. She commended those working in the service: "Despite the many challenges in our prisons however, our staff continue to support and encourage prisoners through our rehabilitative programmes. The fact that prisons have remained stable is testament to the dedication and professionalism of everyone, including partner agencies, who are working to keep people safe and to support them to change."

Minister Long concluded by highlighting that Prisons Week is an opportunity to consider the needs of all those affected: prisoners, their families, victims of crime, and the many people involved in caring for them.

"Prisons must be places of hope, rehabilitation and support. That is how we serve everyone in Northern Ireland," she added.