Inspectors have criticised hygiene standards at one of Northern Ireland's biggest prisons.
A report published today showed that some prisoners at Magilligan jail in Co Derry had to slop out their cells because an electronic system failed, while the general environment was found to have too many oppressive fences and badly planned buildings.
The Criminal Justice Inspectorate's report noted that progress has been made since the prison was last inspected with much of Magilligan considered clean. New residential and healthcare units have opened and safety been improved, with few reported incidents of violence.
However, the report said: “The external environment remained poor. There was some good standard new accommodation, but house blocks were still unsatisfactory, with unacceptable sanitation arrangements.”
Most of the interior residential areas were considered very clean and prisoners had good access to showers and laundries.
Despite this, the report added: “The general environment of the prison was marred by too many oppressive fences and wire, as well as old and badly planned buildings, including Nissen huts.
“The poor design hampered movement and the lack of cover for getting around a large site in bad weather was a particular problem.”
Two new residential units and a healthcare building opened and care for those at risk of self-harming was good with security more proportionate.
The inspectors also welcomed the satisfactory quality of education, skills and work opportunities available for prisoners.
Chief inspector of criminal justice Michael Maguire said: “Inspectors are supportive of the changes which have been introduced at Magilligan Prison to date.
“This progress is welcome and inspectors would pay tribute to the prison governor for his evident determination to deliver change.”
Inspectors reported the situation for prisoners was reasonably good. This represents an improvement in performance since 2004 and 2006.
Inspectors found some of the accommodation to be of a good standard but despite improvements the original house blocks are unfit, with an unsatisfactory night sanitation system.
The wide range of accommodation spread out over a large, badly planned site meant that it was difficult to get around, especially in bad weather, which could lead to the cancellation of work and classes.
Dr Maguire and Nigel Newcomen, deputy chief inspector of prisons in England and Wales who was also involved in the report, added: “This inspection has shown how important the contribution made by management can be in delivering change and we commend the Northern Ireland Prison Service for the work that has been carried out at Magilligan Prison.”
PA