2000 PLUS FOR PRISONS SERVICE

Noting that the proposal came from his ministry, Joseph said it was based on recommendations from a task force report on prison reform and transformation.

He said Cabinet noted that there is, at present, a total of 2,034 officers in all the prisons in TT.

He said a significant staff increase was necessary for the security of the prison system. The new positions will include two deputy commissioners and two assistant commissioners of prisons and 430 prisons officers.

Joseph said the new positions will become effective as soon as possible.

He said there are also plans to improve the physical facilities of the Maximum Security Prison to address the overcrowding problem.

Asked about the overcrowding of prisoners at court jails, Joseph said his ministry is in charge of bringing prisoners to court, and it is not in charge of the facilities at the court.