There is a cut in the budget for the Correctional Service but we cannot dwell on that as the reason why we cannot do our jobs.
“This is the stark reality that we are faced with. We have to try and make do with what we have,” Commissioner for CS, Michael Waipo, said in an interview with this newsroom.
He said there have been some instances where the institution was called into Court about human rights issues as well as trying to prepare staff adequately to address those issues to help minimise cost problems.
“Staff will need to be made aware of the issue and be prepared for it.”
Waipo adds that he is currently in talks with stakeholders to assist with awareness for officers, especially on human rights issues.
This is so the staff can be more informed and aware of what they can and cannot do in terms of their jobs.
He adds further that priority areas that will be looked at, apart from operations, are developments.
“The focus for 2018 is on infrastructure and prison industries for inmates as well as rural lock up in districts.”
He said Bomana is already looking at projects on gardening which will see inmates plant and harvest their produce that will go straight to feeding detainees in the mess.
“Considering the cut in budget, this is something that will be worthwhile in minimising costs all the while keeping inmates busy in doing agricultural activities.”
Keeping up with prison industries, CS institutions can be able to supply their own food, which can also minimise labour costs and the food supply costs for the institutions.