IoM not planning to follow UK's lead on early release of prisoners

But governor says conversations need to be had around futureproofing facility

The Isle of Man is not planning to follow the UK’s lead and release prisoners early due to overcrowding.

That’s from the prison governor who says 24 temporary cells – in portable cabins – should help alleviate some of the current pressure.

‘J-Wing’ is due to come into operation in the near future as the facility in Jurby nears its capacity of 141.  

Yesterday (22 July) there were 135 prisoners across the single occupancy cells on all wings.  

The prison population has recently risen by around 66 percent – in part due to the ‘Operation Nightjar’.

The cabins, which will house men who are deemed ‘low risk’ and who are already working in the community, are said to be a ‘tried and tested’ way of creating capacity by the Ministry of Justice.

Electricity has been hooked up and the fire alarm system, alarm system and CCTV are being tested; the new wing will have to be searched fully before it opens.

It’s believed more than 5,000 prisoners will be released early from prison in England and Wales as part of emergency measures to prevent collapse of the prison system there.

Here, on the Island, Prison Governor Leroy Bonnick told Manx Radio whilst it’s not something being considered he does have authority to enforce ‘executive release’ if required.

But what happens if our prison population peaks before the new cell are ready?

It’s a question we put to him:

You can hear more from Prison Governor Bonnick by listening to this NEWSCAST: