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Mass testing of all prisoners at the Midlands prison found no further positive Covid-19 cases, the Irish Prison Service confirmed.
However, several staff members tested positive for the virus and contact tracing has been initiated in this regard.
Following confirmation last week of a positive prisoner case, the Irish Prison Service and the Midland prison administration implemented a comprehensive contingency plan to prevent the spread of Covid-19 to the general prison population.
The Irish Prison Service, in a statement, said it was a major logistical operation that included massive testing of all prisoners and staff, as well as the introduction of a restricted regime within the prison.
Midlands Prison is a closed medium security adult male prison with a capacity of 870 inmates. As of today, there are 802 prisoners detained there.
The Irish Prison Service said it continues to work closely with HSE / Public Health and that arrangements are being made with the HSE to re-examine all prisoners and staff later this week.
“This will support a return to a more normal prison regime as soon as possible,” he said.
Irish Prison Service Director General Caron McCaffrey visited Midlands Prison today to meet with management and staff and the National Infection Control Team.
A review of the jail’s current infection control and operational arrangements is underway.
“We have been preparing for a potential outbreak of infection for the past nine months and since Friday, Midlands Prison staff have expertly implemented this plan and protected the people in their care,” laments Ms. McCaffrey.
“Unfortunately, several staff members have tested positive and we send our best wishes and hope that they make a full and speedy recovery.”
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