…reiterates Govt’s commitment to ongoing initiatives
The construction of Phase II of the $700 million Mazaruni Prison – a vital project aimed at enhancing the correctional infrastructure is now about 75 per cent completed.
This was relayed to the Permanent Secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry, Andre Ally during a visit to the facility on Wednesday during which he received a comprehensive overview of the facility’s ongoing developments and innovative initiatives.
Upon completion, the facility will aid in the minimisation of overcrowding while meeting international standards. In addition, the construction of the Phase II fence which is being done at a cost of $66 million is 95 per cent completed.
This project is a significant step towards fortifying the security infrastructure of the prison, ensuring a safe and controlled environment within the premises.
During the visit, Ally was thoroughly briefed on the status of ongoing projects including a diverse range of initiatives designed to enhance the infrastructure, living conditions, and overall functionality of the prison.
Apart from the construction of Phase II, the extension of 10 living quarters dedicated to the prison officers, totalling some $89 million is about 95 per cent completed. This aims to significantly improve the residential facilities for the staff, thereby ensuring an optimised working environment.
Additionally, the construction of the evolving boundary fence and watchtower is at 50 per cent completion while the officers’ , which is being done at a cost of over $57 million, is five per cent completed.
Noteworthy was the ongoing rehabilitation of the administrative building – a colonial building, which is 78 per cent complete.
The Ministry stated that Ally’s visit did not only focus on infrastructure but also captured the essence of rehabilitation initiatives.
“He was given a detailed tour of the Phase I prison, showcasing an exemplary model facility within the compound. Furthermore, Mr Ally witnessed firsthand the innovative programme engaging prisoners in learning practical skills, such as constructing a speedboat. Led by workshop instructor Mr Benn and an inmate, this vocational training represents a transformative approach towards prisoner rehabilitation,” the Ministry added.
Some crops grown by inmates
The visit not only highlighted the progress of infrastructure, but also underscored the prison’s commitment to rehabilitation and skill development, aiming to provide inmates with opportunities for productive reintegration into society.
This will aid in minimising recidivism and encapsulated Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn’s Fresh Start initiative.
The Permanent Secretary’s visit concluded with a positive outlook, emphasising the strides made by the Prison administration, not just in construction but in fostering innovative programmes contributing to the rehabilitation and skill enhancement of inmates.
Meanwhile, Ally expressed his appreciation for the work being done and reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting these vital initiatives, signifying a promising future for the inmates and, by extension, Guyana.
He was accompanied by the Deputy Director of Prisons, Kevin Pilgrim and Head of Strategic Management Department of the Guyana Prison Service, Rae-Dawn Corbin. The tour of the correctional institution was facilitated by the Officer in Charge, Calton Cameron.
The construction of Phase II of the $700 million Mazaruni Prison – a vital project aimed at enhancing the correctional infrastructure is now about 75 per cent completed.
