Calls for prison operator to be stripped of contract

FAMILIES of men who have died in a Welsh prison gathered outside to protest against G4S' running of it.

- BRYANA FRANCIS

Bridgend’s HMP Parc has been plagued with controversy over the past few years, with concerns over deaths, drug use, violence and staffing.

Around 20 people gathered outside Parc on Tuesday, calling for G4S - the private security giant that runs the prison - to be stripped of its contract.

Bereaved families claimed there was a drug epidemic inside the prison and a lack of mental health support, and spoke of fears they have for those currently inside.

The Western Mail has previously revealed allegations from former staff members and prisoners of drug-dealing, violence, corruption, chronic understaffing and a lack of mental health support.

At the end of March, six officers were arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Several inmates have died but the deaths are currently being investigated and it will be up to coroner to determine a cause of death.

A spokesperson from HMP Parc said: "Last year was deeply tragic for the families and loved ones of the men who passed away, and our thoughts remain with them. Since then we have done a huge amount of work to drive improvements across the prison, particularly in relation to staffing, safety, security, drugs, regime and respect."