IoM prison relaxes Covid restrictions

The Isle of Man prison has relaxed restrictions but visiting is till suspended.

It follows an outbreak of Covid earlier this month.

Several prisoners contracted the virus prompting officials to suspend visits and limit time spent outside of cells.

A government spokesman said a more "relaxed regime" has now been re-introduced with prisoners now able to exercise and take part in activities with others. 

Visiting is still suspended -  that will be reviewed in the New Year.

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Jane Poole Wilson said: ‘The isolation of two wings for a period of several weeks to help manage an outbreak of Covid Cases was unfortunately necessary. 

"We had to do everything we could to prevent the virus spreading among a prison population of well over 100 prisoners and staff in a closed community. Those measures have proved effective". 

All prison staff test daily and wear masks on-site while while 85% of the prison population have been vaccinated.