Sinn Fein MLA Raymond McCartney
SINN Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has said that while any improvements in the conditions at Maghaberry Prison are welcome the management need to implement more changes to ensure standards are raised.
A report by inspectors said that despite improvements they were still concerned about the levels of drug use and violence in the jail.
And they said they were concerned about the lack of mental health services for inmates.
Last year, following an unannounced inspection, it described the jail as the “most dangerous” it had visited.
Mr McCartney said: “The failure by the management at Maghaberry prison to follow the recommendations of former Inspector of Prison, Anne Owers report lead to a damning inspection last year.
“While I welcome the news that the situation has stabilised it is important that we build upon this and improve conditions for prisoners and staff alike.
“The change of management at the prison is an opportunity to fully implement all recommendations otherwise conditions in the jail will be severely undermined and continue to fall below the standard needed.”
