Contract signed for an extension to Mountjoy Female Prison, adding 52 spaces

The Government has announced it has signed a contract for a new extension at the Dóchas Centre (Mountjoy Female Prison).

The extension will increase the prison’s capacity by 30%, and add around 52 spaces. The Rowan House Yard Extension project reflects the Government's commitment to increase prison capacity and develop a modern prison estate.

The Government plan on increasing capacity by delivering over 1,500 new prison space by 2031. The Dóchas Centre extension will see a two storey extension to the existing block, increasing its capacity from 172 to 224. This will include 26 individual bedrooms, with all rooms designed for double occupancy.

The new project will begin construction in September, and completion is expected in Quarter 4 2027.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan said: “Today marks a significant step forward with the signing of the Rowan House contract at the Dóchas Centre. This project will deliver 52 additional spaces, increasing overall capacity from 172 to 224 spaces. The expansion represents a key component of our ongoing capital investment to directly alleviate overcrowding and ensure a safer, more rehabilitative environment within our prisons.

“This is a key project in the largest ever building programme in the prison estate, which will deliver an additional 1,500 prison spaces by 2031. It reflects my determination and commitment to invest in the prison estate, to make our communities safer and to offer meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation. This development continues the extensive work being undertaken to confront overcrowding and modernise our prisons.”