John Lonergan visits Tuam Training Centre

THE staff and trainees of Tuam Community Training Centre welcomed John Lonergan, the former governor of Mountjoy Prison, on a visit recently where he spoke to trainees about the realities of prison life and how the penal system works. Mr Lonergan entered the prison service in 1968 and served for 42 years, 24 of them as the most senior prison officer in the country. During his visit to Tuam he shared his experiences of working in the prison service. 'Mr Lonergan's honesty and experience allows us to reflect on the realities of prison life and creates awareness of the impact of the choices we make in our lives,' commented centre manager Hazel Fleming. Tuam Community Training Centre was established in 1987, following a survey conducted by the community and the probation service, which revealed the need to provide education and opportunity. TCTC aims to support trainees towards reaching their full potential in a positive, safe and caring learning environment.