Irish army end armed protection for Portlaoise Prison after 50 years [Video]

IRISH DEFENCE FORCES were quietly removed on Monday from armed security on Portlaoise Prison fifty years after they posted there after a series of IRA break out attempts, The Journal has learned.  

A short ceremony was held on Monday in which the last group of soldiers finished their final tour of duty. 

It is understood army personnel and Irish Prison Service members held a “stand down parade” to mark the historic moment. 

It is also understood that military members are likely to be stood down from their work guarding an explosive manufacturing facility in Enfield, County Meath. 

The use of Irish military personnel in the security at the facility was part of a measure to prevent IRA thefts of explosives.

The removal of the soldiers from Portlaoise Prison, which is adjacent to the Midlands Prison, was recommended two years ago in the Commission on the Defence Forces.

The jail’s E Wing is the location …