Woman who dropped her trousers and underwear while going through prison security check brings damages action against State

A woman has brought a damages action against the State following an incident at Castlerea Prison in County Roscommon in May 2009. The applicant claims she was instructed by a prison officer to remove her jeans during a security screening before visiting her husband, and in doing so accidentally exposed herself. She alleges she suffered humiliation and psychological distress as a result and seeks damages for negligence and breach of duty, along with declarations that her constitutional rights were breached. The State denies the claims, contending the woman was never asked to remove her trousers and was treated appropriately by prison staff. In proceedings before the High Court, the prison officer involved gave evidence that he had only requested she remove outer garments as standard procedure and did not instruct her to take off her jeans. The case continues.