No prison visits over Christmas despite relaxed restrictions

Government says visiting will be reviewed in the New Year

Prisoners will be able to enjoy 'a more normal regime' over Christmas – but won't be allowed visits from their loved ones.  

It follows an outbreak of Covid-19 at the Isle of Man Prison which saw two wings put on 'black' regime, for several weeks, and inmates forced to spend more time in their cells.  

Government has now agreed that the status can be downgraded to 'red' – but says visiting restrictions will not be reviewed until the New Year.  

The change will see offenders given the opportunity to exercise outside, associate with others and take part in activities.  

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Jane Poole Wilson said: "We recognise that as a society we must learn to live with Covid and so the Governor has created pathways which more closely mirror the community in order that an entire wing isn’t impacted if one person tests positive.  

"There will be daily lateral flow tests and mask wearing will be maintained throughout the entire prison for all staff who will remain alert for prisoners who exhibit symptoms of COVID 19.  

"The resumption of visiting will be discussed in the New Year after the all-clear is given by our Infection Prevention and Control team."  

Christmas Day will see a ‘relaxed regime’ with those incarcerated participating in competitions and quizzes, having a traditional lunch and the option to make video or telephone calls to their families.