The Minister for Justice announced today that almost 300 prisoners will be released to spend Christmas outside.
Mr McDowell said the Government has granted 294 inmates temporary release.
This figure is just under nine per cent of the total prisoner population. There were 307 prisoners freed last year.
The releases vary in length from a few hours to nine days.
Most of those released are either nearing the end of their sentences or serving short jail terms.
The Minister said the overriding concern for allowing prisoners out over the festive season was the safety of the public.
The prisoners are set free on compassionate and humane considerations, but must follow strict rules such as reporting to Garda stations during their release. Any prisoner who breaks any condition may be arrested and immediately returned to jail.