Hydebank Wood Prison Appoints New Governor

Austin Treacy has been appointed the new governor for Northern Ireland's third largest prison, Hydebank Wood and Young Offenders Centre in Belfast.

The appointment follows the decision by current Governor Paul Norbury to retire at the end of March.

Sue McAllister said: "I would like to thank Paul Norbury for his contribution at Hydebank Wood during his time as Governor. Paul has taken forward a number of important projects including work to develop a secure College for the young offenders.

"He has also been instrumental in delivering better facilities for our female population, including the refurbishment of Ash House which will be completed before the summer. I would like to thank him for his professionalism and dedication, and I wish him well in his retirement."

Austin Treacy has previously served as Governor at Hydebank Wood and in announcing the appointment, Mrs McAllister said: "Austin Treacy is an experienced Governor and will bring energy and focus to his new post. Over the past few years he has played a leading role in supporting the Governor in delivering an enhanced regime at Maghaberry Prison.

"Austin will be supported at Hydebank Wood by a strengthened senior management team who have the skills and experience to ensure we deliver the major reform programme.

"He brings an innovative approach to rehabilitation and will continue to build partnerships across the justice and community sectors. These are the skills that will be needed to deliver the secure College at Hydebank Wood and the wider reforms. I wish him well in his new post and I look forward to working with him at Hydebank Wood."

(CVS/CD)