In the third part of our series on the country's prisons, we visited Mountjoy to find out what life is like for both the prisoners and the staff.
We heard from "Alex", a first-time prisoner, who opened up about the realities he faces every day and about his hopes for life after release.
We also spoke to the Deputy Governor who has worked in Mountjoy for the past 30 years.
They talked about various aspects of prison life, from the ongoing issue of drugs to family visits and rehabilitation.
Listen to the interview in full by pressing the play button on this page.
