One hundred and fifty new prison spaces are to be created in Cork prison in a redevelopment programme which will see the facility become one of the best-equipped in the State.
The Minister for Justice Equality and Law Reform Mr O'Donoghue will sign the contract later today for the commencement of work at the prison which will also include a new specially-designed young offenders unit accommodating up to 40 boys aged 16 and 17 years.
The redevelopment of the main prison will also include the improvement of existing prison cells, new visiting and visitors' reception facilities, a new sports hall and gym and a state-of-the-art kitchen.
The upgrading of Cork prison will take three years to complete and cost more than £35 million.
