An Ireland South MEP has called on the Irish Prison Service to end temporary release for violent criminals.
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú was reacting to figures she received under freedom of information, which shows 558 prisoners across Ireland were on temporary release, as of the end of June.
Male prisoners account for over 75% of these (426), while just over 130 (132) of those on temporary release are female.
The Fianna Fáil MEP, who represents Kerry, described the figures as truly shocking.
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú says temporary release should only be considered in limited circumstances for non-violent offenders: