Alliance Justice spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has welcomed a decision by the Justice Minister to rebuild Magilligan Prison in a phased redevelopment at its current site by 2020.
There are also plans for a secure college development at Hydebank, a new 360 accommodation cell block at Maghaberry and the re-opening of the Prisoner Assessment Unit on the Crumlin Road. The total expenditure is expected to be £202million.
Stewart Dickson MLA said: “This large investment will form the basis of our prison estate for the next 50 – 100 years and will ensure that Magilligan Prison is fit for purpose.
“Before taking this decision, the Minister needed to receive assurances that locating a new prison at Magilligan would encourage and support rehabilitation, provide adequate family links and ensure the safety of both staff and prisoners.
“By guaranteeing that the work of reducing re-offending is given a high priority in the redeveloped prison, we will improve public safety and deliver a fairer justice system.”
ENDS