Fifteen new Corrections staff were welcomed to the Department of Corrections on Friday ? but they took away with them a warning that the prisons are not "trouble free".

But Environment Minister Neletha Butterfield, acting for Home Affairs Minister Randy Horton, told the 13 new officers, one case worker and one social worker at their Passing Out parade in the Clock Tower in Dockyard, that the Service had undergone a series of reviews and there was dissension between officers and the Department's senior management.

But she said there was "abundant hope" for improvement.

Ms Butterfield, an instructor in the prisons for 20 years and a former chairwoman of the Treatment of Offenders Board, said: "There are reports of discord between the Prison Officers' Association and the senior administration of the Department. There are concerns with overcrowding, and criticisms about the inadequacy of the programmes available to inmates.

"There are concerns about inmates' behaviour and the presence of illicit drugs in the prison.

"There has been a very difficult coroner's inquest into the death of inmate Stephen (Pepe) Dill, and the death of another inmate Ernest Hayes Johnston.

"We have had the recent inquiry into the management style and effectiveness of the top two levels of the administration of the Department of Corrections."

Despite the unrest within the Department of Corrections Ms Butterfield believes there is "abundant hope" for improvement.

She explained why she discussed the difficulties the department was having by saying: "It would be irresponsible and misleading of me to the extreme to welcome you as eager new corrections officers, case workers, and social workers, with the suggestion that all is well within the department and that you will be joining a trouble-free environment. That is not the case.

"Also, I want to highlight the degree of respect, admiration and gratitude that we have for you as you join this critically important department."

She wished the recruits a "long and fulfilling career" in the department.

She made her statement after the recruits marched in and were welcomed by Chief officer, Ella-Grace Goodchild.

Acting Commissioner Randall Woolridge said to the room of about 60 recruits, audience members, and officials: "During the course of training, there have been many skills taught that will benefit you as you begin your career; one of those being interpersonal communication.

"The need to communicate effectively has been highlighted consistently during this training programme. The lessons you have taken to heart will keep you focused on those difficult days that will come."

He described the corrections officer as a "reservoir of hope" for an inmate.

"The correctional officer through personal example is able to inspire those in their care to strive for and achieve their potential."

Mr. Woolridge warned the recruits of the challenges that lie ahead.

"It will test you to the very core of your being. As time unfolds, you will discover much about yourself.

"A career in the Department of Corrections is a journey."

He concluded by saying to the recruits: "Don't let good become the enemy of better and don't let better become the enemy of excellence."

The graduates were: Corrections officers, Anthony Brangman, Patricia Butterfield, Jefferson Catlyn, Herman Eve, Derek Ingram, Darren Pitcher, Angela Raynor, Rejean Raynor, Rudolph Samuels, Jason Simons, Jasan Smith, Jason Trott, Doreen Zuill, case worker Tamara Casado, and social worker Lloyquita Symonds.