Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council awards NI Prison Service the Freedom of the Borough

The Northern Ireland Prison Service has been bestowed with the Freedom of the Borough of Causeway Coast and Glens, in recognition of more than a century of dedicated service to all communities across Northern Ireland.

Established in 1921, the Northern Ireland Prison Service has played a vital role in protecting the public, supporting rehabilitation and maintaining safe and secure prisons.

The honour was conferred at a special civic ceremony held at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre today, attended by representatives of the Prison Service, members of the Lieutenancy, Elected Members, and invited guests.

The award has particular significance locally, with Magilligan Prison having been an established part of the community for many years. The prison provides employment for local people, with many local businesses working closely with the prison to help with re-introduction into society.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Councillor Dawn Huggins said:

“It is a tremendous privilege to bestow the Freedom of the Borough upon the Northern Ireland Prison Service.

“This honour recognises more than 100 years of dedication and service by staff, past and present across the Prison Service and of course it’s important to highlight the important role Magilligan Prison locally here, plays in our community.

“At this time, we also remember the 32 members of the Prison Service who have lost their lives while working and we thank all those who continue to serve our communities.

“Each day you demonstrate a level of resilience, and a commitment to carrying out your responsibilities with professionalism that is inspiring and we each thank you and are proud to honour your work. You are, indeed, highly deserving recipients of the Freedom of the Borough.”

Director General of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, Beverley Wall, added:

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for conferring this prestigious honour on the Northern Ireland Prison Service.

“This recognition is a tribute to the dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment of our staff, both past and present. While much of the work of the Prison Service takes place away from public view, behind prison walls and secure gates, its impact reaches far beyond them, helping to protect the public, support rehabilitation and contribute to safer communities across Northern Ireland.

“This honour belongs to every member of the Prison Service family. It reflects the invaluable contribution they make each day, often in challenging circumstances, and they should take great pride in the role they play in serving our society.

“I am immensely proud of the men and women who serve, and who have served, in the Northern Ireland Prison Service. Their integrity, resilience, compassion and professionalism are at the heart of everything we do. Through their commitment, they help create opportunities for change, support those in our care and make a lasting contribution to public safety.

“As we mark this significant occasion, we also pause to remember the 32 members of our Prison Service family who lost their lives in service to the community. We honour their courage, sacrifice and dedication, and we hold their families, friends and loved ones in our thoughts. Their loss is deeply felt, and their legacy remains an enduring part of our history and identity. They will never be forgotten.

“It is a privilege to receive the Freedom of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. We accept this honour with gratitude and humility, mindful of those who have served before us, and with a renewed commitment to continue serving the people of Northern Ireland with dedication, integrity and professionalism.”