68 new officers join Northern Ireland Prison Service in Hydebank Wood ceremony

Justice Minister Naomi Long attended a passing out ceremony for 68 new officers who have joined the Northern Ireland Prison Service. Celebrating with the new recruits also are David Kennedy, Director of Prisons, and Beverley Wall, Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service.

Justice Minister Naomi Long has praised the “fundamental” role of prison officers in the justice system as 68 new recruits were officially welcomed into the Northern Ireland Prison Service.

The new officers were recognised during a formal passing out ceremony held on Thursday 19 June at the Walled Garden in Hydebank Wood Secure College and Women’s Prison.

The event marked the culmination of 12 weeks of intensive training, with the recruits now set to take on a variety of critical roles across the Prison Service — including as Prison Officers, Night Custody Officers, and members of the Prisoner Escort Group.

Justice Minister Naomi Long, who officiated at the ceremony, underscored the significance of the Prison Service’s often unseen work in society.

“The Prison Service operates at the very heart of our justice system. It is a service that often operates out of the public eye, yet its work is fundamental to the fabric of our society,” said Minister Long.

“Your role is not just about containment; it is about providing structure, offering opportunities for learning, and helping to lay the groundwork for a successful return to society. We often say it because it is true – we send people to prison ‘as punishment’ and not ‘for punishment’.”

A passing out ceremony for 68 new officers who have joined the Northern Ireland Prison Service was held at Walled Garden at Hydebank Wood Secure College and Women’s Prison

Minister Long was joined by Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service Beverley Wall and Director of Prisons David Kennedy, along with family members, friends, and colleagues of the newly qualified officers.

In her speech, the Minister acknowledged the modern-day challenges facing the Prison Service, particularly in areas such as mental health, addiction, and rehabilitation.

“We live in a constantly evolving world, and the challenges facing our Prison Service are ever-present. The complexities of mental health, addiction, and rehabilitation demand a sensitive and informed approach.

“Your commitment to doing the best job you can will be crucial in addressing these challenges and in ensuring that our prisons are safe, secure, and ultimately, places where lives can be transformed.”

The ceremony also served as a public affirmation of the Northern Ireland Prison Service’s ongoing commitment to professional development, community safety, and transformative justice.

A service that changes lives

The Northern Ireland Prison Service has consistently highlighted the essential role its officers play not only in maintaining security but also in supporting rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.

With the addition of these 68 new officers, the Service continues to strengthen its capacity to deliver meaningful change within prisons and in wider society.

The recruits now begin their careers across the prison estate at a time when the focus on rehabilitation, safety, and social reintegration has never been greater.