Significant concerns are being raised within Ireland’s justice system about the level of security needed at Portlaoise Prison ahead of Daniel Kinahan’s expected return to the country. Sources have described the Kinahan cartel leader as the “greatest flight risk” the Irish Prison Service has ever managed, prompting fresh discussions about bringing the Irish Army back to the maximum-security facility.
Why Daniel Kinahan Poses a Unique Challenge
Daniel Kinahan, the alleged head of the Kinahan Organised Crime Group, faces serious charges in Ireland, including directing the activities of a criminal organisation for the purpose of committing murder and other offences. He is currently believed to be in Dubai and is expected to be extradited back to Ireland in the near future.
Once returned, Kinahan is set to be housed on the A Wing of Portlaoise Prison — the same landing where his close associate Sean McGovern is already being held.
Calls for Army Presence at Portlaoise Prison
Security officials are reviewing arrangements at Portlaoise Prison, Ireland’s only maximum-security facility. There are growing calls for the reintroduction of a permanent Defence Forces presence to support prison staff, particularly for any unscheduled movements such as emergency hospital visits.
While high-risk prisoners like Kinahan can be moved under armed Garda escort for planned court appearances, the real worry centres on unexpected situations that arise outside normal hours. One source familiar with the planning described the potential difficulties:
“If Kinahan were to fall ill in the middle of the night and armed Gardaí aren’t immediately available, prison officers would be left in a very difficult position.”
Portlaoise Prison Security: The Army’s Previous Role
The Irish Defence Forces maintained a continuous armed presence at Portlaoise Prison for 51 years until October 2023, when they were withdrawn due to a reduced threat level from dissident republican prisoners. A purpose-built €1 million facility for the army was completed on the prison grounds just before the withdrawal.
That infrastructure remains in place, meaning a rapid return of military personnel is logistically possible if requested.
The Greatest Flight Risk Concerns
Those involved in prison planning view Kinahan as an exceptionally high flight risk due to his international connections, significant financial resources, and the global reach of the Kinahan cartel. A full-time army presence, they argue, would provide an extra layer of reassurance for both routine and emergency situations.
The Defence Forces already support An Garda Síochána through “Aid to the Civil Power” operations, providing armed escorts for dangerous prisoners during planned transfers. Extending this to an on-site role at Portlaoise is now under consideration.
Official Response
The Department of Justice, Irish Prison Service, and Defence Forces have all declined to comment on the specific security plans for Kinahan’s arrival, citing operational sensitivity.
Former Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said that any request for the army’s return would need to come from the Prison Service. He noted that while the terrorist threat has reduced, the threat from organised crime has evolved, and the Government should seriously consider any recommendations from prison authorities.
What Happens Next?
Kinahan’s extradition and subsequent incarceration will represent a major test for Ireland’s prison and justice systems. His arrival is likely to be one of the most high-profile and security-intensive operations in the state in recent decades.
Whether the Irish Army returns to Portlaoise Prison on a full-time basis remains to be seen, but the discussions highlight the serious challenges involved in managing such a high-profile and high-risk prisoner.
Conclusion
The debate around Daniel Kinahan’s custody at Portlaoise Prison underscores the ongoing tension between organised crime threats and Ireland’s prison security capabilities. As preparations continue for his return, the focus remains firmly on ensuring public safety and preventing any possibility of escape.
This situation continues to develop, with significant implications for both prison policy and Ireland’s international reputation on tackling transnational crime.
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