KOSI Corporation Ltd (KOSI) has been engaged to conduct an independent review of the governance arrangements within the Voluntary MESS Committees (VMCs) and the financial control frameworks in place within the MESSs that operate across the Irish Prison Service (IPS). There are eight independent staff canteens in operation across the IPS. 

One occasion was noted in 2018 where one MESS (Mountjoy) was not compliant with the Civil Service Alcohol and Drugs Misuse Policy. The Mountjoy VMC representative advised that a staff recognition evening was held in the MESS. The MESS premises are under the ownership of the IPS, and as such are subject to the general Civil Service code of conduct – this would preclude any alcohol consumption in government owned buildings that are unlicensed.

P.26 Consideration should be given to agree and disseminate an alcohol policy for the MESSs, providing for the allowed use or otherwise of alcohol for cooking purposes and the safeguarding of same if permitted, to ensure that the safety, health and welfare of individuals is not compromised. In the event that a zero-alcohol policy is agreed, this should be advised in the Service Agreements.