The home affairs ministry is considering proposals to upgrade the 512-inmate New Amsterdam Prison as well as to address dietary concerns.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, Home Minister Clement Rohee visited the Berbice prison for an on-spot inspection during an outreach exercise on Thursday last. He said the visit allowed him to get a clearer vision of the changes the officials there are contemplating as well as an opportunity to see the conditions under which both males and female inmates are being housed.
Superintendent of the prison Ronald Hazel said he hoped the additional resources will be granted to conduct the necessary upgrades. “We are looking at the extension of the convicted and remand dining hall and the female corridors among other things,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rohee said several areas needed upgrading and “I think they need to do more work in terms of expanding the room for accommodating the present number of prisoners.” The minister also interacted with the inmates during the tour and allowed them an opportunity to voice their concerns. Several complained about the quality of their meals. In response, the minister said he would examine their dietary and medical issues and consider expanding the trade shops. He said this year’s budget allocated $160 million to the prison service for dietary needs.
As regards security measures, since the jailbreak last year, some changes have already been made. Additionally, Hazel said, “there is provision to build two more watchtowers because we have one in front. We now have a fence at the back… There is also clearing of the bushes around the compound to have a clear view.”
GINA said last year $30 million was spent on equipment to improve the prison; $11 million for land and water transportation and $8.2 million for agricultural equipment. Government aims to make the prison self-sufficient and has taken steps towards utilising the prison estate to cultivate food and rear livestock.
