Inmates and staff at Westgate Correctional Facility have been without running water, including that needed to flush toilets, for long a prolonged period.

The Ministry of Justice said last night that the water was restored but The Royal Gazette understands that further issues arose today.

A source said: “Questions should be asked about the conditions of the facility. Those conditions have a direct relationship to the results, or lack thereof, that is seen in the effort to rehabilitate.

“How are men going to be in a mindset to be rehabilitated and educated when there are constant issues like this? When they can't flush their toilets or shower?”

A spokeswoman for the ministry confirmed last night that the water service had been restored.

“The Department of Public Lands and Buildings, working with its plumbing contractor, has completed the necessary repairs and is monitoring the repaired line to ensure the joints remain secure. Once confirmed, the area will be concreted.

“The issue is understood to be related to conditions associated with the facility’s location on reclaimed land.

“Contingency measures were put in place in coordination with the Department of Corrections to support essential activities and maintain continuity of operations while repairs were carried out.

“The department will continue to monitor the situation to ensure the water supply remains stable.”