Maghaberry fires fuel concerns

Concerns have been raised over what one MLA believes to be a potentially “serious problem” with fires at Maghaberry prison.
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TUV leader Jim Allister said he had learned of 28 fires at the prison last year.

“Having received reports about a deteriorating situation in Maghaberry,” he said, “I tabled a question inquiring about the number of fires in the prison over the last year.

“As a result I have discovered that between 1 June 2014 and 31 May 2015 there have been 28 fires and the Fire Service has had to call out to the prison to attend 17 of these incidents.

“I will be pressing the Minister further on the cost of damage caused.

“However, these statistics already suggest that there is a serious problem in Maghaberry.

“It is incumbent upon the Minister to get a grip on the situation and ensure that the authorities have proper control within the prison system.”