Justice Minister has today welcomed a landmark
inspection report which describes Magilligan Prison as one of the
highest-performing prison establishments in the United Kingdom.
The report, published following a joint unannounced inspection by
Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJI) and His
Majesty's Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP), praised the
medium-to-low security facility for its exceptional
staff-prisoner relationships, innovative rehabilitation
programmes, and a culture of safety and respect that sets a
benchmark for all prisons.
The inspectors' findings highlighted that despite the challenges
of an ageing infrastructure, Magilligan has excelled in
delivering purposeful activity and preparing men for successful
reintegration back into the community.
Justice Minister said: "This is an
outstanding result for Magilligan Prison and a testament to the
dedication of every individual working there. To be recognised as
one of the best prisons in the UK is a significant achievement,
particularly when our entire justice system is operating under
such immense pressure.”
"What stands out most in this report is the culture of
respect. Our prisons are at their most effective when they focus
on rehabilitation and hope. By providing a safe and supportive
environment, Magilligan is not just holding people in custody; it
is actively reducing the likelihood of reoffending and making our
entire community safer. I want to thank the Governor Gary Milling
and his staff for their commitment to excellence."
The report specifically commended the "innovation" shown at
Magilligan, including its vocational workshops and its proactive
approach to supporting prisoners with complex needs.
Beverley Wall, Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison
Service, added: “I am extremely proud of the team at Magilligan.
This inspection report validates what we have long recognised -
that the leadership and staff at this establishment are
delivering to an exceptionally high standard.”
“To be described as a model for the rest of the UK is a
significant achievement. It reflects a prison that is
professional, well‑run, and - most importantly - firmly focused
on rehabilitation. While plans for the long‑term redevelopment of
the site continue, this report underlines a fundamental truth: it
is the people, not the infrastructure, who determine the success
of a prison.”
“However, we must also be clear about the pressures facing our
prison system. Maghaberry is operating under immense strain as
the prisoner population grows, the complexity of those entering
custody increases, and public finances tighten. At Magilligan, a
site originally built for 300 people is now accommodating 500.
Without sustained and strategic investment, maintaining the
standards highlighted in this report will become increasingly
challenging.”
“Although the findings are overwhelmingly positive, the
inspection team rightly identifies the need for significant
capital investment to modernise the estate - a project the
Minister has confirmed remains a priority for the Department of
Justice. But we are realistic: the wider financial environment
presents real obstacles for all public services, including
prisons.”
Governor of Magilligan Gary Milling paid tribute to everyone
working in the Prison, saying: “This report is the culmination of
many years hard work across the Prison. We like to think of
Magilligan as a family, made up of many parts. Firstly, the
leadership team and prison staff, but also the many partners
agencies that work so hard to make this prison a success. While
there are too many to name, each of them is a vital part in our
work to support and challenge the men in our care, and to play
our part in building a safer Northern Ireland.”
Notes to Editors:
- Magilligan Prison is a medium to low security prison which
holds male prisoners with six years or less to serve and who meet
the relevant security classification.
