RTE to screen new series on GAA coming to Mountjoy Prison

Some of the most notorious criminals in the country are set to become TV stars.

RTE is to screen a new series based on GAA coming to Mountjoy prison to help inmates rebuild their lives. It will show how many of the young men who became drug addicts have deep regret about the choices they made in life and how they are hoping for a second chance.

The Mountjoy GAA project as it is to be known will focus on the prison’s Progression Unit which accommodates around 150 prisoners in the former St Patrick’s Institute for young offenders building. All inmates housed there irrespective of their crimes are renowned for their good behaviour and are participating in rehabilitation programmes.

Read more: Team of Mountjoy inmates to play football match against guards outside of prison

Among them are the Limerick gangland killer Dessie Dundon, underworld hitman Keith Wilson, and the man who stabbed Dundalk housewife Irene White to death, Anthony Lambe, who are all serving life sentences. Dublin GAA legend Philly McMahon and mental health advocate Rory O’Connor will be working with the prisoners, helping them to get fit, coaching them in gaelic football and working with them to help overcome their addiction and mental health issues.

A prison source said; “A large number of prisoners who generally want to change for the better will feature in the show. We actually have a landing of convicted murderers in the Progression Unit but they are in there because they are on good behavior and attempting to change.

“Philly McMahon will put their gaelic football team together and will be working with the prisoners.”

It is intended that the TV programme will culminate in a game at Croke Park between the prisoners team and the prison officers. It is believed filming will start shortly and it will be screened in Autumn next year.

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