Mental health issues in prisons a big concern

The Superintendent of Prisons (SoP) is of the notion that addressing mental health is not just an issue within the prisons, but within the state of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

When SoP Dwayne Bailey told the High Court there are currently 40 inmates who are suffering from mental illness, Counsel Mikhail Charles rose and asked the superintendent if any personal care is being provided to the inmates to cater to their relevant needs.

Bailey responded that it is indeed a “worrying concern” having these persons mixed into the prison population, but there is no such resource provided within the prison to assist these inmates.

Bailey added that staff nurses administer medication, but there is no personal and specific evaluation and treatment for those who are mentally ill.

“The state itself has issues addressing mental health, it’s no different in the prisons,” Bailey remarked.

His comments came while delivering the prison report yesterday at the Closing of the Assizes at the High Court.

Justice Brian Cottle who presided over the Closing of the Assizes, commented that prisoners are still citizens and they need protection.

Cottle shared an experience when he requested a medical professional to assist in a matter over which he was presiding, but when that professional realised the enormity of the task, she quickly demitted her responsibilities.

“Mentally ill prisoners need a place to go,” Cottle stressed, adding that this is a real and urgent problem.

He continued that if some unfortunate happening were to occur, “You can’t say you didn’t see it coming.”