Oversight of Prison Conditions and Investigations of Deaths in Custody: International Human Rights Standards and the Practice in Ireland

Abstract

This article examines the mechanisms currently available in Ireland for the oversight of prison conditions and investigation of deaths in custody. It further analyses those against international human rights standards. The establishment of appropriate oversight and investigative mechanisms is increasingly important in the context of the deteriorating conditions in Irish prisons that have been regularly criticized by international bodies such as the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture. This article concludes that some significant reforms are needed in Ireland to ensure effective protection of prisoners’ rights.