CS to focus on rehabilitation

The newly appointed Correctional Service Commissioner Noel Sarei was officially welcomed into office with a parade this morning at the Bomana training facility.

He took office two months ago and will serve a four-year term.

In his welcome parade this morning, Commissioner Sarei outlined his key focus areas for his four-year term in office, with a specific focus on rehabilitation of detainees.

He pledged to work in addressing some of the legacy issues impeding the work of the Correctional Services in the country.

The Correctional Services, which continue to face many challenges while carrying out their mandated roles of containment and rehabilitation, are also changing their focus.

Commissioner Noel Sarei highlighted that among its rehabilitation programs is providing detainees with education so they can leave with tertiary qualifications after their prison terms are up.

He also said plans are in place for long-term offenders to be compensated adequately for the work they do.

Commissioner Sarei, whose key focus is on rehabilitation, is also singling out the welfare of female detainees and their children.

Training Commandant Chief Inspector Kiddy Keko welcomed Commissioner Sarei to inspect the parade.

Chief Inspector Keko highlighted the challenges that await the new commissioner, which include staff welfare, prison facilities, insufficient budgets and detainee rehabilitation.

Commissioner Sarei commended all his officers throughout the country, and in the 25 prison facilities, for the work they do amidst challenges.

He pledged to work with them in improving the Correctional Services across PNG.

With four years in office and the many challenges plaguing the Correctional Services, Commissioner Sarei is determined to restore confidence and trust in this important arm of the justice sector in the country.