The Irish Prison Service oversees Irelands prison network. Its mission is to provide a safe, secure and humane environment for those committed to prison.

There are 14 institutions in the Irish Prison System, 11 "closed" institutions which are what most imagine when they think of prisons. The remaining three are open or semi-open facilities.

Working as a prison officer is a challenging role, in an often-difficult environment. You need to be physically fit person with a strong sense of integrity, team work and safety. You also need to possess the belief that each person has the potential to be a better person and be willing to help them achieve this. The prison service also has need for other skilled professions, including psychologists and administrators.