Parallel Workshops
Jointly produced by the EuroPris ICT and Real Estate Expert Groups the presentation offers an insight into the EuroPris guidance paper, explaining the fundamental building blocks of establishing, operating, and designing ICT solutions within a prison environment. The adoption, implementation, and level of sophistication in the use of technology varies between European nations. The presentation will offer prison practitioners commentary on the accepted practices of how to develop and embed ICT solutions into the design of prison facilities.
The integration of ICT systems into traditional prison construction has become one of the most pressing challenges in modern correctional design. As prisons evolve to meet the demands of security, efficiency, and rehabilitation, technology is no longer an optional add on but a fundamental part of the infrastructure. Yet too often ICT systems are introduced late in the process, resulting in costly retrofits, operational inefficiencies, and missed opportunities to align digital tools with the physical environment.
Ultimately, the message is clear: technology must be embedded into prison design from the outset. By aligning construction processes with ICT requirements, correctional facilities can become safer, more efficient, and more humane, while remaining adaptable to the digital future. This guide provides a roadmap for achieving that alignment, ensuring that prisons are not only fit for purpose today but prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
Donna Creaven is a member of the European Organisation of Prison and Correctional Services (EuroPris) ICT Expert Group, where she plays a leading role in contributing to digital strategies. She is also Co-Chair of the ICT Network for the International Corrections & Prisons Association, contributing to global collaboration on technology in corrections. Donna is the Director of ICT, Governance, and Corporate Services at the Irish Prison Service. In this role, she oversees key areas such as ICT, corporate governance, and organisational strategy. Her professional expertise spans law, information technology, project and risk management, public administration, and corporate governance.
She holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and a Masters in Management & Corporate Governance from the University of Ulster. Additionally, she is a Chartered Company Secretary, has completed a Professional Postgraduate Certificate in Data Protection Law from the University of Dublin, and a Professional Diploma in Strategy & Innovation from the Institute of Irish Management, University College Cork.
Donna previously served as a Board Director for Pobal, an organisation that supports the Irish Government in managing funding and services related to social inclusion, equality, inclusive employment, and enterprise. She also serves as a Council Member for the Association for Criminal Justice Research & Development. Furthermore, she has contributed to the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute's Expert Working Group, participating in research focused on technologies for prisoner rehabilitation.
Gustav Tallving is the Executive Director of EuroPris, overseeing long-term planning, management, and reporting to the Board of Directors. He holds a master’s degree in Sociology and a second master’s in business administration (both from Stockholm University).
For 17 years Gustav was working at the Swedish Prison and Probation Service (SPPS). Prison officer, probation officer, staff training specialist and DG advisor are some of his previous roles. Gustav participated in the creation of a national research unit and was for several years responsible for the SPPS research programme. Later he was heading a unit for operational development, covering both prison and probation.
During a two-year secondment at EuroPris, Gustav developed member communications and content for EuroPris activities. At that time, he was equally involved as an expert in the SPPS unit for international affairs, supporting the agenda for international cooperation, UN missions and international aid projects.
