WITH $6.5 billion allocated to the Guyana Prison Service (GFS) in the 2024 budget, much focus will be placed on prison reform and fostering positive change within the prison system to contribute to a safer and more secure Guyana.

This was according to Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, during his recent contribution to the Budget 2024 debate in the National Assembly, where he shared a comprehensive overview of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ plans.

Minister Benn shed light on the transformative initiatives earmarked for the Prison Service which aim to address challenges, enhance security measures, and bring about positive changes within the prison system.

He candidly addressed the escape of death row inmate and convicted mass murderer, Mark Royden Williams, from the Mazaruni Prison last year.

After being at large for several days, “Smallie,” as Williams was commonly referred to, and two accomplices were shot and killed by police during a Joint Services operation at 33 Miles in Region Seven.

Six persons, including four prison officers, are currently before the court for conspiring with each other to assist Williams in his escape.

“We brought the run through the jungle to an end,” Minister Benn declared, highlighting the importance of swiftly addressing incidents that threaten public safety.

To fortify security within the prison system, Minister Benn announced plans to introduce advanced technology, including the installation of cameras.

These measures, combined with strategic investments in infrastructure, aim to ensure heightened vigilance and better response capabilities to prevent future escape attempts.
“Extreme vigilance,” Minister Benn, urged, underscoring the need for a proactive stance in maintaining the security of correctional facilities.

REHABILITATION OF INMATES

The minister outlined an ambitious agenda for the rehabilitation of inmates, emphasising the importance of providing inmates with the tools for a fresh start upon release.

He detailed plans for constructing new vocational schools within the prison system, and offering training programmes that equip prisoners with valuable skills to facilitate reintegration into society.

He shared an innovative plan for the Guyana Prison Service to become self-sufficient in producing 50 per cent of the greens, vegetables, and fruits needed within the prison system.

He further revealed intentions to compensate prisoners for their efforts in agricultural activities, aligning with broader goals of promoting self-sustainability and providing inmates with a sense of purpose.

While Minister Benn acknowledged the challenges faced by the Guyana Prison Service, he conveyed optimism about the transformative path ahead.

He said the proposed initiatives not only aim to address immediate concerns, but also create a future where the prison system plays a crucial role in rehabilitating offenders and contributing to their successful reintegration into society.

The year 2023 was marked a transformative year for the prison system, with significant investments and reforms aimed at improving conditions and reducing recidivism.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has reported substantial advancements and has laid out ambitious plans for continued development in 2024.

In 2023, the government allocated $5.5 billion towards prison reform, resulting in notable infrastructural improvements and training initiatives.

Key developments included the expenditure of $2.2 billion on infrastructural works. Those funds catered for the continuation of the Mazaruni Prison construction, significant developments at the Lusignan Prison including a complete reconstruction, evacuation bay, and access bridge, and the commencement of reconstruction at the New Amsterdam Prison.

For 2024, the government has earmarked $2.8 billion for further infrastructural enhancements.

These plans include completing cell blocks, a vocational school, a male kitchen, and other essential facilities at Lusignan Prison, as well as the construction of an access way and additional electricity supply at the Mazaruni Prison.

TRAINING PROGRAMMES

Training programmes have been a focal point in the reform efforts. In 2023, $111.9 million was invested in training 1,520 inmates and 348 officers in various skills such as agriculture, culinary arts, and information technology.

This initiative aims to support rehabilitation and social transformation upon exit from the prison system.

The 2024 budget has increased this allocation to $140.2 million, with the intention to train 1,600 inmates and 450 officers.

Statistics from the Ministry of Home Affairs show a 2.6 per cent decrease in recidivism in 2023 compared to 2022, with 229 instances recorded.

This reduction is attributed to improved rehabilitation programmes and better support systems for inmates upon release.