Sr. Imelda Wickham (2021). Unheard Voices: Reflections from a Prison Chaplain. Dublin: Messenger Publications

Abstract

Volumes have been written on the failure of prisons to achieve their rehabilitative functions (in the main), and volumes have shown how prisons make many incarcerated people worse. Recidivism figures provide ‘the evidence’ and much has been written about the dehumanizing experience of incarceration. Research shows how young people become trapped in gangs they meet ‘inside’ and a viewing of the brilliant, but chilling, Irish film ‘Michael Inside’ will inform the uninitiated in how this all works. In essence, despite the efforts of many kind and brilliant individuals in ‘the system’ ‘the system’ is failing many of our citizens and we cannot say we do not know. We have enough Irish and international ‘evidence’ to last us a lifetime. Sr Imelda’s book adds to the chilling narrative.