Prisoners will benefit from a new programme that will provide them with opportunities for development both during incarceration and after release.

The initiative was outlined in Parliament yesterday by Health Minister who explained that an agreement has been forged with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) to implement its internationally-renowned offender programme.

A team from the Departments of Court Services and Corrections in Bermuda visited the CSC on December 1 and 2 in an effort to bridge gaps within the criminal justice system, said the minister.

The programmes will provide prisoners opportunities to promote self sufficiency, accountability and enhanced thinking skills.

?We are all very much aware of the reports which indicate that offenders benefit from programmes and that the right programmes can have a positive effect on recidivism. This collaborative effort will ensure that there is a continuum of care for offenders, both in the institution and in the community,? she said.

?Programmes will be offered to afford offenders every opportunity to address their offending and related behaviours and to maximise their potential for successful re-integration into society.? A comprehensive assessment will be completed on each offender as he or she arrives in custody and this will lead to a plan, including programmes, which will be managed by specially-trained staff.