The grieving family of a Cork man who died in prison will feature in a new documentary examining how Irish jails are being used for people with mental illness with devastating and sometimes deadly consequences. Andrew Gearns, aged 29, made an attempt on his life in Cork Prison in September 2020 and later died in hospital. An independent review of all medical care in Cork Prison was recommended by a jury at the inquest into his death. However, he was seen by prison medical staff for less than five minutes on the day of his fatal attempt on his own life. Some 20 ago, the State unveiled plans for psychiatric care in Ireland.

Source: Irish Examiner February 07, 2026 16:05 UTC