Dundons secure leave to challenge 23-hour lockup

Limerick brothers John and Desmond Dundon, both serv- ing life sentences for murder, have secured leave from the High Court to challenge their detention in the segregation unit of Portlaoise Prison where it is alleged they are locked up for 23 hours a day.

The brothers and another prisoner, Nathan Killeen, claim they are being detained without any or any adequate reasons in the segregation unit in close or solitary confinement for an indeterminate period in breach of their constitutional rights.

John Dundon had reported the isolation was making him feel depressed and suicidal at times, his solicitor said in an affidavit. Desmond Dundon, it is claimed, is also experiencing depression, paranoia and suicidal ideation.