Dept. of Correctional Services on Full Show Oct. 27 to Nov. 2

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) will be on full display when it hosts its annual Corrections Week, from October 27 to November 2.

Commissioner of Corrections, Brigadier (Ret.) Radgh Mason, told a JIS Think Tank on October 7 that the DCS intends to provide an engaging and interactive Week.

“This year, Corrections Week has an exciting seven days of activities. We start on the 27th of October with our church service at the Redeemer Moravian Church on North Street in Kingston. This will be followed by an event on each day [Custodial Day, Probation Day]. On Wednesday (October 30) we have our Sports Day at Stadium East,” he noted.

“We have our awards ceremony at The Pegasus Hotel on Friday (November 1), and then we conclude with the Expo at the National Stadium [Indoor Sports Centre], and this is on Saturday (November 2), from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.,” he said.

Commissioner Mason explained that the week-long celebration will spotlight the core functions of the DCS and highlight its programmes geared towards rehabilitation and reintegration.

“The week’s activities will really highlight the work of the Department of Correctional Services. The public will be able to learn and understand the art and science of correctional management. On Custodial Day, the officers will interact primarily with the inmates in varying activities,” Commissioner Mason said.

He noted that the days are designed in a way to give the public a glance into the importance of the DCS in the scope of national security.

“On Probation Day, we interact with the communities, and we will do a project at the Spanish Town Infant School, where we are going to be assisting with some repairs at that facility,” he explained.

Beyond celebrating the efforts of the DCS staff, Corrections Week highlights the continuous need for reform, development, and greater recognition within the field. It underscores the essential role these committed individuals play in maintaining public safety, supporting inmate rehabilitation, and contributing to societal well-being.

Commissioner Mason added that acknowledging the work of Corrections staff at their awards ceremony helps in motivating the team.

“The awards ceremony is aimed at honouring the service of officers and civilian staff that have served the department over a number of years. It is to recognise the service and contribution of over 300 persons in various categories. It is a very important occasion, and it provides an incentive for the staff to be appreciated for their service,” Commissioner Mason said.

The week will be celebrated under the theme ‘Shifting Organisational Culture to Foster Greater Collaboration, Inclusivity, and Agility’.