Min Benn raises concerns about gender disparity among inmates in rehab programmes

During a thanksgiving service to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) on Friday, Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn vented in concern about the gender imbalance within inmates participating in various rehabilitation activities.
Held at the National Cultural Centre on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown the event kicked off with a church service, giving praise for 40 years of service which is being celebrated under the theme, “Promoting Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Prisoners.”

The event included a significant ribbon-cutting ceremony which opened a two-day exhibition that will showcase the skills of prisoners.
During this event, Benn expressed his concerns about the limited involvement of male inmates in the prison reform programme.
He emphasized the urgency of rectifying this disparity to prevent individuals from reverting to violent or dangerous tendencies after serving their sentences.
Despite substantial engagement in agricultural activities, particularly in furnishing and training, the minister noted a stark contrast in participation between male and female prisoners.
While some programs are in their nascent stages, Minister Benn stressed the importance of addressing these issues promptly to prevent recidivism.
“…we are finding ways in spite of the experiences with COVID and other disruptions …we are involving them more in agricultural work, which has been significant over the past years… there is more work to be done”, he said.
Minister Benn outlined the significance of transforming the prison service to ensure the safe reintegration of prisoners into society.
He further emphasized the need to conscientiously rehabilitate individuals, harnessing their potential to create better citizens. The Minister highlighted the importance of utilizing inmates’ time in prison productively to benefit society.
“There is high participation of the female prisoners with respect to these activities but we have to advance more the issues of men being involved and we may involve the risk that may be inherent in them doing things aside from what they are being accustomed to.”
In January of this year, the Guyana Prison Service embarked on comprehensive improvement plans. These initiatives included constructing new prisons and living quarters, upgrading facilities, modernizing penal legislation, and enhancing the successful reintegration of offenders into society.
To showcase the outcomes of the reform programs, products crafted by inmates from Lusignan, Mazaruni, and New Amsterdam prisons were displayed at the exhibition on Friday.
Inmates involved in welding and construction exhibited a range of products, including lamps, fireside stoves, desks, benches, bed frames, and chair sets. Those participating in food preparation showcased seasonings and meals, while a unique program allowed them to produce skin moisturizers.
Additionally, inmates engaged in barbering and craftsmanship, highlighting the diverse skills being nurtured within the prison system.