RAMSI Special Coordinator James Batley has welcomed the progress achieved by the Solomon Islands Prison Service (SIPS) since the end of the tension period.

Mr Batley was speaking on Monday 20 March at the opening of the renovated SIPS headquarters and a new detention centre for young prisoners at Rove Central prison. Both projects were funded as part of RAMSI’s assistance to the Prison Service. Caretaker Minister for Justice, Police and National Security, the Hon Simeon Bouro, was present as guest of honour for the ceremony.

“A well-run prison service is an essential part of the law and justice sector in any country. In Solomon Islands it is now in much better shape,” Mr Batley said.

Mr Batley said that the progress that had been achieved was the result of a successful partnership between Solomon Island and RAMSI.

“RAMSI’s partnership with SIPS is a very good example of practical capacity building at work: helping both individuals and organisations to operate more effectively.”

Mr Batley told SIPS officers that RAMSI personnel were not in Solomon Islands to do their jobs for them, but to help them do their jobs better.

“We remain committed to helping SIPS as part of the broader RAMSI program of helping the country rebuild itself and to become a leader in the region.”

Inspecting the new juvenile detention centre at Rove, Mr Batley said that properly treated and managed young prisoners were less likely to return to prison in the future.

“This unit is an investment in the future of Solomon Islands,” he said.

“No one actually wants to see a young person in prison, but if they have to be there in accordance with decisions by the courts, then it’s vital they are treated properly.

“This is a safe environment with specially trained staff and the young prisoners are separated from adult prisoners.”

Mr Batley said this model would be replicated in provincial prisons as they are redeveloped.

For further information, please contact: Office of the Special Coordinator
+677 24699 (office), +677 94447 (mobile)