The Public Appointments Service, in collaboration with the Irish Prison Service and the Department of Justice, have launched the 2023 recruitment campaign for Recruit Prison Officers with the Irish Prison Service.
The Prison Service intends to recruit up to 250 Recruit Prison Officers in 2023 with an additional 300 in 2024.
The Irish Prison Service is responsible for the provision of safe, secure, and humane custody for those people committed to prison by the Courts. This role is a chance to contribute meaningfully to society, make a lasting impact, and embark on a fulfilling journey within the Irish Prison Service.
Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD, has welcomed the opening of the 2023 campaign and urges all passionate and driven individuals with an interest to apply:
“I am delighted that applicants can now apply to join the Irish Prison Service through the 2023 Recruit Prison Officer Competition. The Irish Prison Service have a proud tradition of serving communities, keeping people safe and ensuring safe and secure custody to those in their care.
“In return for that commitment, it is the role of Government to support the work of the Prison Service in building safer, stronger communities, and I am committed to providing that support to those who work to keep our communities safe.”
Caron McCaffrey, Director General of the Irish Prison Service added,
“The 2023 Recruit Prison Officer competition is very much welcomed and demonstrates our continued commitment to increasing the workforce. Through competition such as the Recruit Prison Officer Competition, the Irish Prison Service aims to attract individuals who possess the qualities of empathy, resilience, and dedication necessary to thrive in this challenging yet rewarding profession. This is an opportunity to join a dedicated team of professionals committed to promoting rehabilitation, community safety, and the principles of our Justice system"
The Recruit Prison Officer is an entry-level role in the Irish Prison Service. It is proposed to set up a panel from which vacancies arising in the Irish Prison Service may be filled. Following the successful completion of 3 years’ service including probation and a Higher Certificate in Custodial Care, the Recruit Prison Officer will be appointed as an established Prison Officer.
The last recruitment competition was held in 2022 and was highly successful with over 2,000 applicants.
The 2023 Recruit Prison Officer competition closes at 3 pm Thursday 28th September 2023.