A bishop has expressed alarm that the chapel in Mountjoy prison in Dublin is to be repurposed, rendering it out-of-action for 8 weeks.

The chapel will be closed for remodelling to create space for “video link capacity”.

Bishop Martin Hayes released a strong statement condemning the lack of consultation and timing of the move.

He said there has not been appropriate consultation with prisoners or with prison chaplains regarding the project and the unilateral approach “runs counter to maintaining harmonious and respectful relations in our prison community”.

“I can only conclude that, arising from the approach taken and speed of action, that prisoners’ rights in Mountjoy – in terms of their freedom of religious expression – have been suppressed by authorities. As the holy season of Advent leading up to Christmas begins this Sunday, the timing of this decision is particularly poignant”.