TWENTY-EIGHT inmates from various prison facilities have benefitted from the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) ‘Fresh Start’ programme which was first rolled out in 2022.

Fourteen toolkits were issued during 2022 with a similar amount for 2023.
Toolkits distributed were in the fields of tailoring, animal husbandry, welding, electrical installation, joinery, plumbing, landscaping, cosmetology and product resale.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot said the ‘Fresh Start’ initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, offering second chances and empowering individuals to embrace a future filled with promise and opportunity.

Mr. Elliot further reiterated that the programme is dedicated to reducing criminal recidivism by helping individuals with felony convictions gain access to resources and provide the necessary motivation for success when reintegrating into the community.

The head of prisons also noted that the programme addresses the needs of ex-offenders transitioning from incarceration back into society, as well as giving former offenders a chance to be better individuals.

Meanwhile, Head of the Prisons Service’s Strategic Management Department, Rae-Dawn Corbin-Cameron also noted that the toolkits provided, are a means of helping former prisoners earn an income.

The Fresh Start oversight committee is tasked with reviewing all the applications, verifying the area of operation and monitoring the progress of successful applicants.

However, for 2024, the GPS plans to expand the oversight committee to have more officers dedicated to identifying eligible candidates. (GPS)