Division 7 at the Corradino Correctional Facility has undergone a total transformation through works carried out by inmates and correctional staff.

Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela inaugurated the works today. He said the works carried out to transform the previously dilapidated prison wing show a positive attitude. 30 inmates and 8 correctional officers took part in the €70,000 project.

The Minister said projects like these showed that prison officers are not only guards but also have a correctional role.

These officers are currently teaching skills to inmates and are taking part in proactive initiatives with them. Mr Abela spoke on the government’s efforts to turn the prison into a truly correctional facility. Work and education are being put together and a call for the application of care plan coordinators is open. These will plan the necessary treatment according to the personal needs and skills of the inmates, from the beginning of their time in the facility.

12 inmates are following formal and informal education courses. Another course, organized by the University of Malta and the University of London aims to improve their communications and English language skills through drama. Around 160 inmates are participating in initiatives related to the prison workshops.

Mr Abela appealed to business owners to find the courage to invest in the skills offered by inmates.  The first step should be for these employers to start building a relationship with the inmates while they are still serving time in the facility. The government, he said, is willing to listen to ideas.