Families carry a hidden cost of imprisonment. It’s time for policy to reflect their reality.
#ChildrensRights #PenalReform #SocialJustice #PayingThePrice

Expert panel insights:
• Koulla Yiasouma
• Patricia Keilthy (Office of the Children’s Ombudsman)
• Dr Naomi Feely (Children’s Rights Alliance)
They emphasized the need for a child-centred, compassionate approach when a family member is imprisoned.

At the launch:
🗣️ Moninne Griffith (Community Foundation Ireland) – chair & speaker
🗣️ Saoirse Brady (IPRT) – highlighted why this research is urgent
🗣️ Dr Sara Singleton – presented the findings
#SocialJustice #HumanRights

Imprisonment doesn’t just affect the individual. Families face:
💸 Financial strain
💔 Emotional stress
🏠 Social challenges
These hidden costs are too often ignored in justice policy.

3/3⚖️On Community Service Orders (Head 25), IPRT’s evidence highlighted the need for proportionality, supports, and proper resourcing.
These reforms mark progress toward a fairer, more effective justice system where prison is truly a last resort.
#CriminalJustice #CommunitySanctions

2/3 ✅ The Committee has recommended removing Head 20, meaning Prison Officers will not be armed with incapacitant spray — a position IPRT strongly supported, in advocating for evidence-based and human rights–compliant safety measures.
#HumanRights #Justice

Youth justice principles should also extend to young adults up to 24 to prevent abrupt “cliff-edge” transitions when leaving the youth system.
📄Full statement, submission & recommendations: bit.ly/47shBtq
🎥 Full committee proceedings:

We supported the expansion of Deferred Sentence Supervision Orders (DSSO) and emphasised that rehabilitation & reintegration should guide detention periods.

Detention must remain a last resort. We called for expanding the Bail Supervision Scheme nationwide and ensuring community-based alternatives are prioritised where appropriate.

We welcomed the Bill’s intent to strengthen the youth justice system but highlighted a missed opportunity to align with human rights obligations, including raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 14 as recommended by the UN.