Some 280 prisoners are to be given release for Christmas. The figure represents 9 per cent of the State's prison population and is 14 prisoners fewer than last year.
The periods of liberty will vary between eight hours and eight days.
The Minister for Justice Michael McDowell said some prisoners were being released on compassionate grounds though other criteria apply such the gravity of the offence, length of sentence served, prior record on release and previous criminal history.
Mr McDowell said: "Many of the prisoners being released are nearing the end of their sentences, while others are serving relatively short sentences. The overriding concern in considering applications for Christmas release from prisoners is the safety of the public."
A variety of conditions attach to the releases with many required to report regularly to their local Garda station.
The Christmas releases are provided for under the terms of the Criminal Justice Act 1960.