About the ICPO

Supporting Irish Prisoners and their Families

The ICPO provides a wide range of support and services to Irish people in prison overseas and their families. Irish people in prison overseas face significant challenges such as discrimination, language barriers and dealing with an unfamiliar legal system. Many experience extreme isolation and some have limited access to basic necessities, and In some jurisdictions, prison conditions and safety are a major cause of concern.

The ICPO was established by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference in 1985 to respond to the significant challenges Irish people face in prison overseas. Presently, the ICPO has contact with over one thousand Irish people in prisons in more than thirty countries around the world. The ICPO works with all Irish people and their families wherever they are and at all stages of the imprisonment process. The ICPO ensures everyone is treated as an individual and the service provided is tailored to their needs. We stay with people on their journey and maintain a positive and supportive presence as long as needed.

The ICPO works to support Irish people in prison overseas and their families to cope with the challenges of imprisonment and to increase their chances of rebuilding their lives after release. This is achieved by engaging in casework to provide information, support, and advocacy. ICPO services include; intensive case management, family support work, prison visitation, post release support, information and advocacy on a wide range of issues and policies, including repatriation, deportation, health and legal matters, discrimination, ill-treatment. The ICPO also provides a number of ancillary supports such as the Penfriend Scheme, Newsletters and practical assistance by providing funds for basic necessities, such as food and clothing, and to help maintain contact with family and friends.

Our vision

The vision of ICPO is of a world where the human rights of Irish people in prison overseas are respected and their dignity is honoured.

Our Mission

To empower Irish people, and their families, facing the challenges of imprisonment and detention abroad, by providing information, advocacy, support, and pastoral care. We help restore hope, resilience, and the potential to rebuild lives.

Our Values

Inclusivity: We work with all Irish people and their families, at all stages of the criminal justice process, irrespective of faith, personal status or conviction.
Respect: We treat everyone with dignity and compassion.
Confidentiality: We ensure the privacy of everyone we work with.
Person-centred: We journey with people, tailoring services to their needs, for as long as required.

Funders and Partners

Funding for the ICPO is provided in part by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference and, as such, the organisation feels a deep responsibility towards parishioners whose donations support our work. In addition to the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), with whom we work closely, is a primary source of funding for the ICPO. The Society of St Vincent de Paul, and other organisations such as the Sisters of Mercy, also contribute vital funding to our projects. These financial resources are crucial in maintaining and expanding ICPO services.