This comes following the arrival of Daniel Kinahan to Portlaoise Prison.
A Laois Senator highlighting serious overcrowding issues in the county's prisons amid the national media storm over Daniel Kinahan's detention.
Sinn Féin's Maria McCormack believes overcrowding is undermining safety in the maximum security Portlaoise Prison where Mr Kinahan is being held.
She says the issue makes it more difficult to manage violence and drug use, and limits access to rehabilitation.
Portlaoise Prison has an operational capacity of 226, but has been operating well above this level in recent times.
Across Ireland, 132 assaults on Irish Prison Service staff were recorded last year.
Senator McCormack says those who work at the prision need protection:
Laois TD Warns Drug Debts Are Being Collected Through Fear And Intimidation
Bottle And Can Returns Raise Over €300K For Charities This Summer
Lifeboat Press Officer Issues Safety Warning Ahead Of Bank Holiday Weekend
Midlands MEP Slams ‘Fantasy Football’ Economics Over Future of CAP
Offaly Traditional Musician Donal Lunny Passes Away
"A Slap In The Face"- Westmeath Graduate Nurse Pushes For Answers On Job Contract
Westmeath Community Celebrating Tidy Towns 2026 Victory
Westmeath Man Set To Compete In Dublin City Marathon For The First Time