Hosein: Protect prison officers

BARATARIA/SAN JUAN MP Saddam Hosein urged the Government to act to protect the lives of prison officers, following the recent murder of prison officer Sherwin Francis, 48, at his Chaguanas home last week Friday. In a statement on Friday, Hosein lamented a substantial number of killings of prison officers in recent times.

“After several calls, the Government has failed to provide ample safety measures to protect these officers.” Hosein said he had met the Prison Officers Association on Thursday in lengthy talks on many issues affecting the safety of prison officers.

“In particular there were discussions on implementing legislation to treat with the arming of prison officers, secure housing and camera systems for prison officers.”

He said these issues were of utmost concern after the recent murder of Francis who was ambushed and killed at his residence on September 19. Hosein raised another issue.

“It was noted as a matter of grave concern that the Government has taken no proactive steps in order to treat with any outbreak of covid19 cases in the prisons.”

Hosein called for health protocols and international health guidelines to be implemented in the prison in order to prevent any serious outbreak.

“I call on the Minister of National Security to take the required steps to ensure the safety of these officers who risk their lives and the lives of their families on a daily basis in national service.

“The safety of our prison officers is of utmost priority and importance to the security of our country.”