Prison officer suspensions rise
The number of prison officers in Northern Ireland suspended for gross misconduct has increased, new figures show.
In 2008, 17 were suspended, up from just two in 2007 and four in 2006.
Of the suspensions, 16 were for neglect of duty. An inappropriate relationship with an inmate caused the other.
Two were sacked in 2008, one interfered with a prisoner’s confidential letter and another had an inappropriate relationship with a prisoner.
Two prison officers were dismissed in 2007 and three sacked in 2006.
Northern Ireland Minister Paul Goggins gave the figures in a written parliamentary reply to Ulster Unionist Lady Sylvia Hermon, the North Down MP.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service runs HMP Maghaberry and HMP Magilligan, as well as HM Prison and Young Offenders’ Centre, Hydebank Wood.
