Independent Monitoring Board

The Independent Monitoring Board, formerly known as the Board of Visitors, is established in statute (The Custody Act 1995) and its principal duty is to satisfy itself as to the state of prison premises, the administration of the prison and the treatment of prisoners.

Members are paid an allowance for attending meetings of the Board and are also entitled to travelling expenses, when appropriate.

WHO ARE THE MEMBERS OF THE INDEPENDENT MONITORING BOARD?

Until recently, the Independent Monitoring Board consisted solely of Justices of the Peace. The Department of Home Affairs now includes independent members of the public on the Board to ensure a broad representation of the local community, with men and women of all ages and backgrounds.

Members are appointed by the Minister for Home Affairs and hold office for three years, or for a lesser period if a vacancy is being filled.

WHAT DO THEY DO?

The Independent Monitoring Board meets once a month to discuss business which has arisen in that month from the weekly rota visits made by individual members. During a rota visit, a Member tours the prison and hears requests and complaints made by prisoners. Members also talk to prison staff and listen to their concerns. These responsibilities are often referred to as the watchdog role. This involves not only being alert to matters of concern, but also raising them through the normal prison channels, and if necessary taking matters directly to the Minister for Home Affairs.

Board members observe how things are run, the state of the premises and how prisoners are treated. During a rota visit, Members come into contact with all sections of the prison - management, staff and prisoners - sometimes the different interests involved require sensitive handling. In addition, the Board has a disciplinary role which involves adjudicating upon the more serious offences against prison rules. This quasi - judicial function calls for a due amount of commonsense, an appreciation of the relevant procedures and an understanding of the principles of natural justice.

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED AND HOW DO I APPLY?

You do not need any formal qualifications to become a member of the Independent Monitoring Board. What you will need are the interest, commitment, energy and time to make a full contribution to the work of the Board. The Department looks for people with:-

• compassion
• tact
• diplomacy
• open-mindedness
• professionalism
• a sense of justice

If you have had some experience of voluntary or community work it can be useful. Details of any vacancies for the Independent Monitoring Board and how to apply will be posted here.