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:

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