Induction Ceremony for the Prison Visiting Committee

The Ministry of Public Safety, Social Welfare and Religious Affairs hosted an induction ceremony for the newly appointed members of the Prison Visiting Committee on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the Department of Correctional Services (H.M. Prison), Grand Turk.

Minister of Public Safety, Social Welfare and Religious Affairs Hon. Shaun Malcolm (fourth from left) shares a photo moment with newly inducted members of the Prison Visiting Committee

The meeting brought together Committee members, senior government officials, and key stakeholders to formally introduce the Committee and outline its responsibilities and objectives.

 The induction ceremony featured welcome remarks by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, followed by an overview of the prison and its operations presented by Superintendent Michael Woodbine. Remarks were also delivered by the Minister with responsibility for Public Safety, the Hon. Shaun D. Malcolm, and Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, who joined the meeting virtually.

 During the ceremony, members were presented with their instruments of appointment and participated in a guided tour of the facility to gain firsthand insight into the institution’s operations, rehabilitation programmes, and ongoing improvement initiatives.

 Speaking on the appointments, the Hon. Shaun D. Malcolm emphasized the importance of independent oversight in strengthening the correctional system and promoting public confidence.

“The Prison Visiting Committee plays an important role in helping to strengthen transparency, accountability, and confidence within our prison system. Independent oversight helps ensure that persons in custody are treated fairly and humanely, while also reinforcing our broader commitment to rehabilitation, public safety, and positive outcomes for those who will one day return to our communities,” the Minister stated.

 The Prison Visiting Committee will serve as an important independent mechanism for monitoring prison conditions and the treatment of persons in custody. Through regular visits, observations, and reporting, the Committee will help strengthen oversight and support continued improvements within the correctional system.

The Ministry extends sincere congratulations to all appointed members and thanks them for accepting this important public responsibility.