Totally different ball game at new prison says Pompey

Visitors to and inmates of the minimum security Belle Isle Correctional Facility, will now have to get used to international standards.{{more}}

So says Godfred Pompey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security who indicated that the men housed at the facility on the Leeward side of the country, as well as persons visiting them, will have to abide by greater regulations in order to facilitate a safer, more secure environment.

“It’s a totally different ball game,” Pompey, speaking to SEARCHLIGHT on Monday, April 23, indicated.

“Visits to Belle Isle by visitors will be by appointments only, and for the appointment, you must visit the Kingstown prisons or call 457-1937 or 485-7010.

“Visiting hours will be on Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., as according to law.”

Pompey said that other groups and organizations that desire to visit the facility, would have to make relevant arrangements with prison officials.

According to Pompey, the more than 200 inmates have experienced a wardrobe change; they will now be wearing the internationally approved orange uniforms, which replace the traditional blue suits, and include shirts and pants.

The men will soon be issued numbers for easier identification.

“Some were making noise that they wanted their own personal clothes, but we cannot allow that.”

Pompey said that since the prisons have issued new uniforms, relatives were asked to collect the personal items of clothing.

Another addition to the facility is the presence of a magistrates’ court, which will serve that district.

The Permanent Secretary said that the facility was given high ratings by international security personnel, who visited the area a few months ago, and praised it for the controlled security features.

“They are happy with their new environment; it’s less crowded, they have their own space…. We are in a better position to expand our agricultural program; we have a very productive pig farm which will be expanded, plus we are to commence our fowl farm and other root crops.

“We are trying to make the prisoners self-sufficient in terms of food,” Pompey noted.(JJ)