The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago expresses its deep concerns over the deteriorating state of command and control in the prison system in this country.
The country has experienced the trauma of the very recent escape of prisoners and the accompanying outbreak of gunfire exchanges in public spaces which resulted in the tragic loss of life of PC Maynard and the wounding of other officers.
There have existed, now for an unacceptable period of time, the deplorable conditions of the Remand Yard and the equally unacceptable periods of incarceration of persons who have not, after many years, been properly and duly processed according to law.
Currently before the Industrial Court are the complaints of the Prison Officers for better terms and conditions of service and safety conditions under which they are required to discharge their duties. This latter is now before the Industrial Court. Without commenting on the merits or otherwise of that matter before the Court, the Law Association expects that it will receive the urgent hearing which is warranted, including the utilization by the parties of the unique conciliation dispute resolution procedures available under the Industrial Relations Act.
None of these circumstances can be treated as isolated They underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive and urgent Audit into the conditions, systems and procedures employed in our penal system particularly at the Remand Yard in Port of Spain to inform necessary remedial preventative measures.
The Law Association calls for an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances regarding yesterday’s shooting incidents, with productive working cooperation amongst the Commissioners of Prisons and of the Police to ensure that those culpable be promptly brought to justice.
The Law Association has every confidence that both arms of the protective services of the State will thoroughly investigate this recent matter and bring it to speedy conclusion.
LATT
25TH JULY 2015