Cabinet Approves Sentence Commutation for Skilled Inmates Contributing to Home Construction Initiative

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Minister Gaston Browne announced that the cabinet has agreed to commute the sentences of certain skilled prisoners actively engaged in the construction of homes through the Home Advancement Programme for the Indigent (HAPI).

The Prime Minister shared this development via a Facebook post on Thursday morning, emphasizing that the decision pertains specifically to inmates with “non-heinous convictions.”

Upon their release from His Majesty’s Prison, these skilled inmates will be promptly employed by the National Housing Authority, facilitating their reintegration into society and enabling them to contribute to crucial housing projects.

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The HAPI initiative stands as the Government’s cornerstone housing program, aimed at providing essential support to vulnerable families in need.

This initiative recently made headlines by successfully providing a new home for a family that had been displaced by a fire in March, demonstrating the program’s commitment to aiding those in crisis.

This decision reflects a broader strategy to not only assist vulnerable communities but also to leverage the skills of these inmates, fostering a path toward rehabilitation and community contribution.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/06/05/cabinet-approves-sentence-commutation-for-skilled-inmates-contributing-to-home-construction-initiative. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (7)

  • Randy June 5, 2025, 12:26 PM

    Commendation. This is clearly a mam with a vision. One with a heartbeat compassion too
    Reply
  • Ben Simmons June 5, 2025, 1:04 PM

    PM Brown has a soft spot for people like those he grew up with. I am happy about this
    Reply
  • Juju Bee June 5, 2025, 4:54 PM

    Then people will say the government not caring and it this and it that. Good move PM Browne and cabinet
    Reply
  • Teacher for Life June 5, 2025, 9:46 PM

    While on the surface this seems like an excellent idea, I have questions. What qualifies as nonheinous crimes? Does being a pedophile and/or being convicted of rape or violence against women, considered heinous or non? Those who are guilty of any of the aforementioned should be made to serve their entire sentence.
    Reply
  • Milton June 5, 2025, 10:57 PM

    Alot of young men in prison who have skills and who have worked their time. Yes PM this is it
    Reply
  • Yeplot June 6, 2025, 10:21 AM

    I like the idea. Sounds good. but some of these jailbaits are so ungrateful
    Reply
    • Unruly One June 7, 2025, 9:50 AM

      This is an excellent initiative
      Reply

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