His Majesty’s Prison (file photo)
The Government will recruit a consultant to conduct a comprehensive review of Antigua and Barbuda’s prison system, with a focus on rehabilitation and reducing repeat offending.
Acting Prime Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin informed Cabinet that the review will examine the structure and operations of the correctional system and recommend reforms.
The announcement comes as the Government advances plans to construct a modern prison at the Prison Farm in the Potworks Dam area.
The new facility is expected to be developed in phases, beginning with accommodation for approximately 150 inmates.
Once fully developed, it would allow the Government to move inmates out of the centuries-old prison in St John’s.
Cabinet said a modern correctional system must do more than securely detain offenders. It must provide education, skills training, rehabilitation and support for inmates preparing to return to society.
Particular attention is expected to be paid to younger offenders who may still be redirected towards productive lives.
The Government believes stronger rehabilitation programmes could reduce the likelihood of former inmates returning to criminal activity after their release.
Cabinet said the proposed prison reforms form part of a broader strategy that includes tougher action against illegal firearms, improved policing, expanded surveillance, parental accountability and earlier intervention with at-risk young people.
Reform the schools first before they get to jail, let them report them kids that don’t show up to school, always fighting, smoking and selling weed on school compounds, lock up the parents that negligent to the above, let us start there and they won’t end up here 😒
I hope the review looks beyond the buildings and focuses on rehabilitation too. People who leave prison need a real chance to turn their lives around and not end up back inside.
Boy, if we building a new facility, let’s make sure we actually get value from it. Better conditions, proper security and programmes that help inmates come out better than they went in.
I hope this new prison not gonna take 20 years to build