Jamaica: Ministry of National Security donates 500 self-testing kits in prisons

The Ministry of National Security of Jamaica recently completed the handing over ceremony of 500 self-testing kits in the prisons while strengthening the controlling measures against the COVID-19 on the island.

The Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Zavia Mayne, while addressing the ceremony, said, along with adhering to the prevention and curbing measures, the self-testing kits will contribute in a significant way in preventing the further spread of the virus.

While addressing the ceremony, the State Minister held at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in Kingston said, “It will go far way.. it will be a major aid in your efforts, your fight and response against COVID-19 with your correctional facilities.”

He said staff members at the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) had done “appreciable” work to curb the virus, adding that there are around 94 active cases among the inmate population; out of whom 498 have been recovered, whereas there are 24 members who are out with the infections, and 421 have been recovered.

Meanwhile, Minister Mayne added that work is going on to improve the health of inmates and to facilitate rehabilitation across the system, “so that they can become better citizens when they exit correctional facilities.”

At the same time, Chief Technical Director in the Ministry, Shauna Towers, said during the past two years, the correctional staff has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of the inmates at the institutions, and the kits will help with the effective management of the pandemic in the prisons.