Concerns over comfort dog introduced at Magilligan Prison

Concerns have been raised by a local MLA regarding the introduction of a comfort dog at Magilligan Prison. 

Previous media reports told of how the comfort dog has been introduced by prison chiefs for violent sex offenders in the County Derry jail. 

MLA Cara Hunter has said she has written to Minister Long to raise urgent concerns about the welfare of a comfort dog recently introduced at Magilligan Prison. 

She said “While I fully support the role emotional support animals can play in rehabilitation, this must never come at the expense of animal welfare, staff consultation, or proper safeguards. I am seeking urgent clarity to ensure these standards are upheld.”

A Department of Justice spokesperson said, “A recent newspaper article made a number of inaccurate and unfounded claims regarding the care of Bailey, the support dog at Magilligan Prison.   It is extremely disappointing that others have chosen to repeat these claims without first checking their veracity.  Bailey is registered with a local veterinary practice and is in good health. Local council officials have recently visited Magilligan Prison and confirmed that Bailey is in excellent condition, appropriately housed and properly safeguarded.”

“The Prison Service takes its duty of care for animals’ safety and wellbeing very seriously and has also an established record of working with a range of animal charities to offer a caring home and a purposeful life to many dogs.  For many years dogs have played a crucial role in the Service, supporting staff in maintaining security and safety at establishments.  The benefits of dogs providing emotional support is now widely recognised and in the prison environment they can offer support to people with poor mental health and addiction issues.  This helps promote positive changes in behaviour and reduce stress and anxiety.  

“Support dogs are highly valued and well cared for team members and have helped countless prisoners who have been in crisis.  It is our intention that this work will continue for many years to come.”