<P> A Life sentence in Ireland may last for the natural life of the convict . It is not necessarily "life imprisonment" in practice, as not all of the life sentence is generally served in prison custody . The granting of temporary or early release of life sentenced prisoners is a feature of the Irish prison system handled by the Minister for Justice and Equality . </P> <P> In deciding on the release from prison of a prisoner sentenced to life imprisonment, the Minister will always consider the advice and recommendations of the Parole Board of Ireland . The Board, as of 2007, will normally review prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment after seven years have been served; however, the sentencing judge can extend this to a maximum of 30 years or order that the prisoner is to spend the remainder of their life in prison . </P>

What does a life sentence mean in ireland