Today, Dr Joe Garrihy and Dr Ciara Bracken-Roche launch their report "Boxed Out: Higher Education, Criminal Convictions, and Perceptions of Risk". This work drives sectoral reform and redevelopment, and in collaboration with the Irish Penal Reform Trust this study constitutes the first empirical research on HEI admissions policies and practices regarding People With Convictions (PWC) in Ireland. Education is a protective factor which reduces recidivism and supports desistance from crime and reintegration, but barriers and stigmatisation are pronounced for PWC. This launch presents the evidence base for reform and fair admissions policies and practices necessary to counteract the primacy of risk-based approaches. The research team are presenting their research findings alongside ten practicable policy recommendations to help improve access to HEI for PWCs. There will also be reflections from a panel of key stakeholders.
If you would like to read the report, please access it here:
Maynooth University Boxed Out Higher Education Report