Low reoffending rates and prison numbers have prompted the Bermuda Government to explore whether the Prison Farm or the Co-Ed facility should be closed.

A thorough review of internal corrections operations will be conducted by Commissioner Eddie Lamb with a view to determining what options best serve the department.

A report is likely to be completed by the end of the year, according to a Ministry of National Security spokeswoman.

In last week’s Throne Speech, the Governor, George Fergusson, outlined Government plans to commission a review to determine “the best means by which to close one of the minimum security facilities”.

He said: “Recidivism rates are at historically low levels. The rehabilitation of inmates and their successful return to society is borne out in these enviable statistics.

“With prison populations at record lows and the successes achieved in meaningful work experience and community driven programmes, the Government has commissioned a review to determine the best means by which to close one of the minimum security facilities.”

At present there are three corrections facilities in Bermuda; Westgate, the Prison Farm and the Co-Ed facility.

The Prison Farm caters for low-risk prisoners as well as inmates who are about to be released into the community, while Co-Ed houses young inmates and female offenders.

The spokeswoman for the Ministry of National Security told The Royal Gazette that the review or corrections operations was “in hand presently” and would provide options.

“The success of Corrections in rehabilitation means that we can properly examine the model as part of planning for the future,” she added.

“In the first instance, the Commissioner of Corrections is reviewing operations internally and will advise on the implications, operational and mission impact of any proposed reduction in facilities.

“The review will determine the best means by which to close a minimum security facility whilst ensuring that doing so doesn’t prejudice the core mission of corrections which is to progress inmates through the system toward an eventual release back into the community.”