service, Health & Social Services Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness told the House of Assembly on Friday.

Responding to a question from Shadow Social Services Minister Mr. Nelson Bascome , Mr. Edness said that one officer's caseload was not excessive at present.

"We are aware that the programme will have to be expanded as the courts use community service more and more,'' he said. "But it's sufficient for the current load.'' In answer to a separate question from Mr. Bascome, Mr. Edness said no date has been set for the opening of a proposed rehabilitation centre.

Mr. Bascome argued that, in newspaper interviews, Mr. Edness had indicated it would be open by now but Mr. Edness disputed this.