Prison visiting committee members should have a fixed term. Some people have been on committees for 20 years or more which is not a good idea and some are on two committees or more. It is hard to meet people who will criticise the system but it is worthwhile doing so. About ten years ago the visiting committee in Mountjoy Prison gave out hell about members of my profession and the medical treatment of prisoners. Treatment was transformed as a result. Criticism does work. It is depressing to hear from prisoners that they have little faith in the visiting committee and that they would prefer to complain to the chaplain.