Watch: Freedom of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough conferred on Northern Ireland Prison Service as 32 colleagues 'who lost their lives serving our community' are remembered

The Deputy Lieutenant for County Antrim, Pauline Shields OBE, and Director General, Beverley Wall were amongst the 150 guests, who gathered at Theatre at The Mill on Wednesday (February 17).

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick commented: “The Northern Ireland Prison Service makes an invaluable contribution to our society, and is a truly deserving recipient of this distinguished award.

“This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication, professionalism and bravery of its officers, and their steadfast commitment to maintaining safety across Northern Ireland.”

The Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour the local government authority can bestow upon an organisation.

Justice Minister, Naomi Long said, “I want to thank the council for recognising the exceptional work of everyone in the Northern Ireland Prison Service. Prisons play a hugely important role in our justice system by supporting and challenging people in our care to change.

“The work of the Prison Service is sometimes described as the ‘hidden’ part of the justice system as they work behind walls and gates and often out of the sight and mind of the general public.

"However, the impact of their work resonates in every town, street and household across Northern Ireland. This honour belongs to each of them, and they can take great pride in the work they do.”

The official ceremony followed a commemorative parade which took place earlier in the day. Representatives from the Northern Ireland Prison Service paraded from Ballyclare Town Hall to Ballyclare War Memorial Park where they gathered for a commemorative service.

Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, Beverley Wall said, “I am incredibly proud of the men and women of the Prison Service - those serving today and those who served before us. This honour is a recognition of their professionalism, integrity and empathy for those in their care.

“We also take time to remember the 32 colleagues who lost their lives serving our community. We hold their families in our thoughts; they live with that loss every day, and we are proud to have them as part of our wider Prison Service family.

“As we receive this award from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, we promise that - despite the challenges we face - we will continue to serve everyone in Northern Ireland and do our part to help keep our community safe.”

The Northern Ireland Prison Service will now be added to the council’s Roll of Honourable Freemen alongside former councillors, scientists, business leaders and sporting heroes.