The Governor

Title: The Governor: The Life & Times of the Man Who Ran Mountjoy
Author: John Lonergan
Publisher: Penguin Books
ISBN: 9781844882403

From the publisher: In his talks to communities throughout the length and breath of Ireland, John Lonergan finds himself coming back to one theme: the importance of kindness. It is an unexpected theme for the former boss of Ireland's biggest and toughest prison, Mountjoy, but then John Lonergan is an unusual man.

John entered the prison service in 1968 and in the years that followed, as he saw human nature at its worst - and often, unexpectedly, at its best - he developed a deep understanding both of human nature and of Irish society.

Now, after 42 years in the service, 26 of them as the most senior prison officer in the country, John tells his fascinating life story - from his idyllic childhood in rural Tipperary, to coming face to face with the ugliest face of Irish life, to grappling with the politics of working in a service that was the plaything of officials and politicians. His description of life in the prison service is not only a gripping account of humanity at its rawest, but also an invaluable primer for anyone in top level management.

Revealing, surprising and inspiring The Governor gives a unique insight into modern Ireland.

From the review by Ivana Bacik: This honest, forthright and highly readable account of his career is written in his distinctive voice. It can often be a grim tale, but it is lightened by Lonergan’s innate faith in humanity. He displays real empathy for the prisoners under his care, commenting that “some children are born into circumstances where the odds are so stacked against them it is almost impossible for them to overcome the obstacles in their path”.... In writing this thoughtful and compassionate book, John Lonergan is shining a welcome light on a shamefully neglected area. Ministers and policy makers alike have much to learn from his vast experience as prison governor, and from the sensible, humane and rational prison reforms that he so powerfully advocates. Read the full review