Major Stories

Matthew Samuda: New Day for Local Corrections System

Cabinet Minister with responsibility for the nation’s prisons, Senator Matthew Samuda has announced historic changes for the local corrections system. This as he says rehabilitation is critical if Jamaica is to secure its future. He was speaking during his state of the nation address in the Senate, Friday. In his maiden state of the nation presentation, Government Senator Matthew Samuda, tasked with the management of the country’s correctional facilities says it is incumbent on the government to chart a clear path for rehabilitation in Jamaica to secure the future. 

“If we are to realize the security outcomes, the Offender Management, Rehabilitation Policy, and Parole Board-Administration branch is the unit within the Ministry of National Security (MNS) which contributes to crime prevention by facilitating successful management, rehabilitation, and reintegration of offenders, says Matthew Samuda.

He explains that the branch has been charged with developing an offender management policy. The document will establish a blueprint for increasing the support offenders receive from entry into a correctional facility to reintegration into society and that the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) will treat the inmates as clients. “An overhaul of the current corrections law geared towards reducing the prevalence of prohibited items and clamping down on gangsters’ use of technology behind bars, is underway,” he told the Senate.

Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of National Security (MNS), Matthew Samuda, is eyeing a new day for inmates and offenders in Jamaica. “The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) will treat the inmates as clients, provide support for each client from entry until they are reintegrated, rely heavily on scientific evidence in assessing the needs of each client, and be more proactive in making necessary interventions… ” says Minister Samuda

For more details on the historic changes in the corrections system, watch the full report below:

Click the link below for more stories from our newsroom:

Recent Posts

J. Wray & Nephew Limited Expands Portfolio with Distribution of Courvoisier

J. Wray & Nephew Limited, a subsidiary of Campari Group, has expanded its premium spirits…

4 days ago

Mikael Phillips Says He’s Subject of IC Report Sent to Parliament

Based on media reports and calls from journalists, I understand that I am the subject…

3 weeks ago

Criminal Threats Halt Work on Mandela Highway, Government Vows to Press On

Work to improve a critical section of the Mandela Highway through Central Village came to…

3 weeks ago

All Set for N.E.S.A. By-Election

The voters of St. Ann North Eastern go to the polls today (September 30, 2024)…

1 month ago

Integrity Commission Slams Fake Document Amid Leak Controversy

Reprehensible, abominable, and repulsive! That’s how the Integrity Commission is describing a fake document circulating…

2 months ago

St James Man Charged for Murder

Detectives in St. James have charged 30-year-old Joseph McKenzie, also known as "Geo," with the…

2 months ago