plans to house child support prisoners in their neighbourhood at a public meeting tomorrow night.

Labour and Home Affairs Minister Paula Cox is hosting the meeting at Southside and will answer questions along with Commissioner of Prisons Edward Dyer.

The prisoners, who have been jailed solely for non-payment of child maintenance, are likely to move into temporary accommodation in Building 632 at Southside later this month.

The prisoners, who will be away from the area on work release programmes during the day, remain imprisoned until the courts are satisfied that their debts have been discharged, or a significant portion has been paid.

Last night, Ms Cox said she hoped any residents with concerns or queries would attend the meeting.

She said: "I want the people who have any issues or queries, to feel they have the opportunity to be heard. This is to clarify the situation and set the record straight.

"This is where I can diffuse concerns.'' All residents in St. David's have been sent invites to the meeting, however, Ms. Cox said she believed there had been problems in getting some delivered on time.

But she said she hoped there would be a good turnout at the gathering, which is only for people living in the area.

Senator Kim Swan last night welcomed the meeting after writing to Health Minister Nelson Bascome earlier this year voicing concerns on a number of issues on behalf of residents.

And he said although this meeting tomorrow was only to debate the issue of the civil prison, be believed other concerns would be raised by residents, such as the development of the Southside area.

He said: "I applaud Minister Cox for having this meeting. I think that it will give people a chance to voice their concerns and explain how they feel.

"But there are other issues that St. David's people have. The area is becoming densely populated and there are going to be changes that will impact on residents' lives.

"It's incumbent on Government to explain to people what is planned and what is happening. I welcome this meeting, but we need others to discuss other issues, too.'' The meeting will be held at the New Testament Church of God, Building 120, Westcott Road, Southside, at 8 p.m. tomorrow.

Meeting: Paula Cox