PRESS RELEASE - The Bordelais Correctional Facility is vigorously pursuing its rehabilitation programme in the New Year. On Monday, January 12, 2014, the Facility in association with C.A.R.E and R.I.S.E. will launch a youth training programme that will target the rehabilitation of a section of its largely youthful inmate population.
This programme is patterned after the Caribbean Youth Empowerment Programme (CYEP) which was sponsored by the International Youth Foundation (IYF) through funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Former inmates who previously participated in that programme benefitted greatly and as a result have been able to lead successful lives outside of prison because of their positive contributions in their respective communities. Inmates from the Bordelais Correctional Facility have participated in the CYEP/ IYF/USAID programme from 2011 to 2013.
According to Officer in Charge Wayne Charlery, “the purpose of the programme is to teach the inmates essential life skills and coping mechanisms, as well as to provide vocational training, so that they are able to live productive and fulfilling lives after incarceration”.
The coordinating team for this programme comprises Dr. Karleen Mason and Mrs. Emma Hippolyte of the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education – C.A.R.E., Dr. Stephen King and Dr. Jacqueline Bird of the non–governmental organization R.I.S.E., and Mr. Wayne Charlery, Officer in Charge of the B.C.F.
The stakeholders met in August 2014, to plan and organize the programme. Officials are happy to announce that all is in place to commence the programme with a cohort of thirteen (13) inmates ranging from eighteen (18) to thirty-two (32) years of age. The programme will run for duration of six (6) months.
The programme will be officially launched at the La-Caye,/Mabouya Valley, C.A.R.E. Facility in Dennery at 4:00 p.m.
This venue will also serve as the learning center for the participants of the programme, Honorable Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs, Planning & Social Security, Senator, Honorable Victor P. La Corboniere, Minister for Legal Affairs, Home Affairs & National Security, Honorable Shawn Edward, Minister for Youth Development and Sports as well as officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs and National Security along with other government officials are expected to be in attendance.