NI Prison Service statement

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Prison Service said, “A man remanded into the custody to Maghaberry Prison on Thursday (3 September) has tested positive for Covid-19. As with all new committals during the pandemic he was separated from the main prisoner population to ensure the safety of staff and other prisoners. He is being cared for by our staff and colleagues from the South Eastern Trust. His family have been informed.

“This is the first positive test of a prisoner in Northern Ireland.  The robust processes put in place in response to the pandemic have ensured this has been contained, and the Prison Service will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone in our prisons during these challenging times.”

Notes to editors: 

1.    Maghaberry Prison is the only Category ‘A’ prison in Northern Ireland and also operates as a remand prison for all adult male prisoners in the country. It accommodates a range of sentenced prisoners such as life sentence, indeterminate and extended custody prisoners, separated prisoners, fine defaulters and civil prisoners.

2.  All media enquiries should be directed to the Department of Justice Press Office via email at press.office@justice-ni.x.gsi.gov.uk  Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer on 028 9037 8110.

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