Reopening an inquiry into Welsh prisons has become a top priority following a series of deaths at HMP Parc, as reported by Wales Online. Last month, four staff members at Parc prison in Bridgend were arrested on suspicion of assault and misconduct. While South Wales Police have not disclosed further details about the incidents, it is known that 13 inmates have died at the prison this year.
Labour MP Ruth Jones, who now chairs Parliament’s Welsh Affairs Committee, expressed deep concern over the ongoing issues at HMP Parc. She has pledged to reopen an inquiry into Welsh prisons to address these troubling developments. Concerns have been raised about staff smuggling illegal substances into the prison, with reports of drugs circulating among inmates ranging from cannabis to heroin.
Ms Jones highlighted the importance of continuing the committee’s work on various inquiries that were interrupted by the general election. In particular, she emphasised the need to focus on prisons across Wales, with a special emphasis on HMP Parc due to the alarming number of deaths. The committee had plans to visit HMP Berwyn in North Wales, which had to be postponed due to the election.
As the chairwoman-elect, Ms Jones aims to incorporate fresh ideas from new committee members while ensuring that ongoing investigations are not disregarded. Additionally, she mentioned her intention to address an animal welfare issue through a Private Member’s Bill, drawing on her background in the shadow Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
In response to these developments, an HMP Parc spokesperson acknowledged the tragic deaths earlier this year and expressed a commitment to making positive changes within the prison. They extended an invitation to Ruth Jones MP and other stakeholders to showcase the progress and initiatives being undertaken at the prison.
The renewed focus on Welsh prisons, particularly HMP Parc, underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for comprehensive investigations and reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of inmates and staff.