The Irish Council for Prisoners Overseas (ICPO), established in 1985 by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, continues to provide vital support to Irish citizens incarcerated worldwide. Currently, it is estimated that more than 1,200 Irish individuals are detained in prisons across over thirty countries, with the highest concentrations in the UK, the USA, and Australia.
As we enter the New Year, the ICPO shared with CatholicNews.ie the significant impact of its work, particularly during the Christmas season when families are reunited, and prisoners feel the comfort of connection.
“I just want to say thank you for being there for me,” shared one anonymous individual currently incarcerated abroad. “The ICPO has helped me with everything from medical needs to sending me books and letters. They’ve made me feel less alone in a system where it feels like nobody cares.”
According to Leslie Alcock (pictured above), ICPO Coordinator, “The ICPO’s mission is simple yet profound: to ensure the human rights and dignity of Irish prisoners overseas are respected. By offering comprehensive services such as case management, family support, prison visitation, and post-release advocacy, the ICPO acts as a lifeline to those isolated in foreign prison systems.”
For many prisoners, including those confined in difficult conditions, the ICPO’s support is more than just logistical, it is emotional. “Your fantastic penfriend scheme is a lifesaver,” said another anonymous prisoner. “It is very kind that you have people who will go out of their way to write a letter. It gives me a reason to keep going.”
Leslie continued, “The ICPO’s dedication extends beyond providing practical help. The organisation understands the emotional toll of imprisonment, especially during times of the year like Christmas. Each year, the ICPO sends out newsletters and Christmas cards to the prisoners they support, ensuring that even in the toughest of circumstances, Irish prisoners feel the warmth of their home country.
“Despite the overwhelming challenges faced by Irish prisoners overseas, including navigating unfamiliar legal systems, language barriers, and unsafe conditions, the ICPO is unwavering in its commitment to providing a supportive, non-judgmental presence.”
“Thank you for travelling such a long way to see me,” said one prisoner, recalling a visit from an ICPO staff member. “It’s nice to spend time with someone who treated me like a real person. I am so grateful to the ICPO for making me feel like my life mattered.”
“For many Irish prisoners overseas, the ICPO is not just a charity; it’s a lifeline”, Leslie continued.
For more information about ICPO, please visit HERE
