Commissioner condemns prison hunger strike

COMMISSIONER OF PRISONS Dennis Pulchan condemned prisoners who have staged a hunger strike amid concerns over covid19 and placement in the prison.

The prisoners are protesting over the placement of other prisoners who were once housed in the section destroyed by riots in March.

In a release sent to the media, Pulchan confirmed videos being circulated on social media of prisoners refusing food provided by the prisons and placing it outside their cells.

The protest comes out of concerns about the spread of covid19 and demands for speedy trials for those accused of murder, reasonable bail for petty offenders, and access to clothing and medication brought to the prison by their loved ones.

Most of all, the prisoners are demanding the immediate release of all inmates at Building 13, whom, according to the message, are “facing oppression” by police who charged them.

Pulchan, in his release, pointed out the inmates in that block were the same inmates who, in March, rioted and destroyed the southern division where they were housed amid the same covid19 fears.

Pulchan said five inmates had tested positive for covid19, all from the Port of Spain Gaol.

Pulchan said two of the prisoners have recovered and three are still in quarantine. He added that prisoners continue to be monitored and the prison has taken several measures during the pandemic to ensure the safety of all inmates, including the introduction of virtual visitation, the dispensing of more than 3,000 masks and the installation of several sanitation booths.

“Skipping a meal is a prisoner’s choice which is facilitated, recorded and their well-being ensured,” the release said.

“Prisoners are continuously monitored and there is a protocol to be observed, should anyone display any symptoms or complain about feeling unwell.”