Inmates conduct second protest regarding conditions at HMP Glenochil

Inmates are conducting their second protest within a week concerning conditions at HMP Glenochil, located in Clackmannanshire. The BBC has learned that detainees commenced demonstrating earlier on Saturday, following an initial protest last Sunday. It is understood that their dissatisfaction stems from the duration of time they are permitted outside their cells, and they are advocating for an increase in available activities. The Scottish Prison Service stated that the protest is being managed safely. A spokesman for the prison service said: “I can confirm a protest is ongoing at HMP Glenochil, which is currently being managed safely by staff, who will work with those in our care to ensure the security and wellbeing of all.” Approximately 500 prisoners serving short sentences have been released in recent months under an early release scheme; however, the prison population is once again nearing record levels. Last month, the Scottish government abandoned plans for the automatic early release of long-term prisoners after concerns were raised by victims of crime. Instead, Justice Secretary Angela Constance announced her intention to introduce legislation to reduce the automatic release point for hundreds of short-term prisoners from 50% of their sentence to 40%. BBC Scotland News has contacted the Scottish government for comment. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.