OBA concerned by lack of psychologists
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The Island’s prison system is down to a single full-time psychologist as the Department of Corrections searches to fill two recent vacancies.
Opposition MP Michael Dunkley labelled it “a very disturbing development, because it places important rehabilitation work in limbo”.
Earlier this week The Royal Gazette learned that one psychologist had gone on maternity leave while another had left at the end of his contract.
According to Justice Minister Kim Wilson, the ensuing shortfall has been addressed in part through collaboration with other departments.
Commissioner of Corrections Edward Lamb said new staff were currently being recruited.
One Bermuda Alliance MP Mr Dunkley questioned whether the losses had been “an austerity move by the Government, or something that happened because no-one was paying attention”.
He added: “Either way, the question needs to be asked: Is this Government interested in prisoner rehabilitation? Are they interested in helping people?”
Both the Violent Offender Programme and Sex Offender Programmes are currently being covered with the help of Court Services.
Mr Dunkley called the arrangement “concerning”, adding: “A lot of Bermudian families would like to know just what is going on.”
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Published Nov 23, 2012 at 8:00 am (Updated Nov 23, 2012 at 12:06 am)