The Justice Minister says preparatory works on four key projects are due to get underway this year.
More money has been announced to try to deal with prison capacity issues.
Last week, the Prison Officers Association claimed the system is at breaking point with almost 1,000 more prisoners nationally that capacity would allow.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said the nearly €50 million will increase capacity in the short-term through undefined measures.
She says preparatory works will begin on four projects, including the Midlands Prison, this year, with construction expected to start in 2025.
Gabriel Keaveny of the IPOA says dangerous levels of overcrowding cannot be allowed to continue:
Laois Senator And Family Left Shaken After Attempted Car Theft At Their Home
Westmeath Woman Recovering Well After Major US Cancer Operation
Midlands Councillors To Seek Extra Funding For Deteriorating Roads
Right To Be Forgotten Law Comes Into Effect For Cancer Survivors
Young People Retrace 165km Famine Walkway Journey To Commemorate Irish history
“Very poor” Repairs To Farm Equipment Key Factor In Fatal Injuries To Laois Man
Gardai Highlighting Widespread Challenge Of Drug Intimidation At Laois Conference
A Dead Mouse And Rodent Droppings Lead To Closure Orders For Laois Businesses