Northern Ireland Prison Service to receive Council’s highest honour – Freedom of the Borough

The Northern Ireland Prison Service will receive the Freedom of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

The motion, proposed by Alderman Aaron Callan and seconded by Alderman Mark Fielding, was agreed at a special Council meeting held on Tuesday, January 6.

Speaking about the honour, Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Alderman Richard Brown Stewart said: “It is fantastic to see the Northern Ireland Prison Service awarded with this remarkable accolade for their commitment and dedication to public service.

“Magilligan Prison, located within the Borough, is one of Northern Ireland’s key custodial facilities. It provides vital employment opportunities to the local community, and through educational programs, vocational training, and other rehabilitative initiatives, plays a critical role in helping individuals reintegrate into society as law-abiding citizens.”

Alderman Callan, who proposed the motion, added: “I am delighted that Council have agreed my motion to confer the Freedom of the Borough on the Northern Ireland Prison Service.

“NIPS has a long-standing history of dedicated service and sacrifice, playing a vital role in upholding law and order across the region. 

“The services commitment to justice is a testament to the men and women who have served within its ranks. Their enduring contributions to the rule of law and community safety continue to be deeply valued by our residents.”

Alderman Callan said it was especially fitting that Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council should recognise the Northern Ireland Prison Service given the presence of HMP Magilligan within the Borough and within his own District Electoral Area of Limavady.

He noted that Magilligan has been a major employer and a central part of the local community for decades, and that many families across the Borough have direct links to those who have served, or continue to serve, in the prison system.