Purpose-built in 1953 as a novitiate for the White Fathers Missionary Congregation, it was opened in September 1955 and closed in 1970, with the remaining students enrolling in University College Dublin.

The centre houses a medical surgery with trained staff, which is available from 8 am to 8 pm each day.

Psychiatrists are available on call, and a Probation and Welfare Service officer is on duty from Tuesday to Friday each week.

An alcohol education programme exists and is delivered to suitable offenders.

Computer facilities are provided to allow inmates to develop skills in that area.