Councils to be part of Magilligan prison liason group

There had been a recommendation to de-commission the prison on the outskirts of Limavady.

However, as a result of meetings with councillors and officers from Coleraine, Limavady and Ballymoney councils, Justice Minister David Ford announced back in November that, subject to the outcome of the current discussions with Councils, he was minded to continue with the provision of a prison service at Magilligan going forward.

In an attempt to progress the issue, an elected members group will be set up with members from Coleraine, Limavady and Ballymoney Councils.

At Tuesday night’s Policy and Development meeting at Coleraine Borough Council, members agreed to be part of the group. It will be decided later this month what members from Coleraine will sit on the group.