Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr Horace Chang, says duties carried out by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Boards of Visitors (BOV) are indispensable.
He made the comment while delivering an address to over sixty (60) board members at the BOVs Orientation and Sensitization Session, held at the Jamaica Conference Centre, Downtown Kingston on Thursday, September 14.
"You are a critical part of the strategic framework that we are building for the improvement of the management, rehabilitation and reintegration services of the Department of Correctional Services," the Minister stated.
He told Board members that their oversight ensures that those who have lost their way are not lost to neglect or abuse and that the vigilance of the BOV reassures society that the government's commitment to justice extends even behind bars.
"We recognize the importance of your roles in shaping the very foundation of a more just and compassionate society," Minister Chang said, while pointing out that the Board of Visitors are guardians of accountability, transparency, fairness and justice.
The session provided a space for the board members to voice their concerns and provide updates on the operations at their assigned facilities across the island.
Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security while giving a Charge to the Boards at the session reiterated the Ministry’s stance that those who have been incarcerated are still human beings, deserving of respect and the opportunity for rehabilitation, and reintegration.
“In the performance of your duties, I urge you to remain unbiased and impartial,” Minister Flynn said.
As she charged the board members to continue the work being done, she urged “let the scales of justice be your guide, and let your actions reflect the values of integrity and equity”.
Also in attendance at the sensitization session were the Acting Commissioner of Corrections, Dr Marc Thomas as well as Chief Technical Director, Crime Prevention Rehabilitation and Inspectorate Policy Division in the Ministry of National Security , Shauna Trowers who delivered remarks on behalf of Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Alison Stone Roofe.
The Boards of Visitors are being appointed for a duration of two (2) years. Each Board consists of nine (9) members, and a member is selected to be the chairperson of the Board.
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