Plans are progressing to build an equine unit at Castlerea Prison which will allow prisoners to work with horses.
According to Mid West Radio news “It’s hoped the stable unit may open next Spring, according to Jonathan Irwin, founder of the Jack & Jill Foundation and a former blood stock agent, who has raised over €100,000 euro for the stud facility.”
“Mr Irwin came up with the idea after visiting a prison in the United States, says it’s been proven that the rate of reoffending drops significantly among prisoners who learn about the care and management of horses.”
“The Irish Prison Service is supporting the project, which would be the first of its kind in Europe, and surveyors will look at possible sites within the prison grounds next week.”
“Jonathan Irwin told Midwest News that this project has been a dream of his for the past 30 years, and he hopes it will open next Spring.”
