H.M.P. OFFICIALS SEEKING PARTNERSHIPS TO ENHANCE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRISON STAFF

Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 14, 2022 (SKNIS): Officials at Her Majesty’s Prison in St. Kitts and Nevis are seeking to build partnerships with agencies and individuals who can enhance training opportunities for prison guards.

Principal Officer Charles Molyneaux said that several training programmes target residents at the correctional facility. However, he noted that the men and women working at the agency should not be forgotten by private partners or non-governmental organizations.

He referred to the expertise at the C. F. Bryant College as well as the University of the West Indies Open Campus and envisioned collaboration in the area of conflict management and resolution.

“Every day, persons are not going to wake up feeling the same and officers being in the position that they are would be able to settle things before they escalate,” he said on the April 13 edition of the radio and television programme Working for You.

To reinforce his point, Principal Officer Molyneaux, who also serves as Shift Leader, recalled an incident where an inmate was being very disruptive. While observing the disorderly conduct, a colleague suggested that Principal Officer Molyneaux have a conversation with the inmate rather than punish him. The ensuing interaction was positive, and the inmate apologized for his behaviour to the senior prison official after expressing the source of his frustration.

The prison inspector indicated that many HMP residents get frustrated by their inability to assist their families economically. As such, they “act out,” causing disruptions with guards or fellow inmates.

“Sometimes, you just have to listen to the guys. Sometimes they would wake up not feeling right. It can’t always be the heavy hammer [of correction]. Sometimes, they just need a listening ear,” Principal Officer Molyneaux expressed.

Individuals or agencies wishing to partner with HMP can telephone the correctional facility at 465-1666. 
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