Prison Law: Prisoner Experiences of Accountability Mechanisms in Ireland

Abstract

Despite the growth in bodies which play a role in prison accountability, limited data exists on how prisoners experience structures set up to achieve accountability, in particular inspection and monitoring bodies, and those mandated to deal with complaints, such as Ombudsmen, litigation, judicial review, or the lack of such structures. Through semi structured interviews and surveys this research explores these experiences, as well as the factors which impact upon these experiences and perceptions, including how prisoners view themselves as holders of rights and the impact of human rights principles upon them. Key themes identified were a lack of awareness and trust in the bodies which currently operate in Irish prisons, however, prisoners were receptive to the overall goals of accountability bodies. In addition to this, expectations of these different bodies impacted upon experiences with the bodies and perceptions of their role in helping prisoners. Factors such as prison culture and rights consciousness, and perceptions of right worthiness shaped prisoners perceptions of and decisions to interact with accountability bodies.