Premier Visits Westgate, Talks With Prisoners
Premier of Bermuda Dr. Ewart Brown yesterday [June 14] visited Westgate Correctional Facility and engaged in a face to face dialogue with several inmates; with both prison officials and members of the media excused from the room to facilitate a full, frank and open conversation.
The Premier said, “The cause and passion of my life has for many years been uplifting the condition of the young black male. Today I had an opportunity to listen to and engage in conversation with men who have been responsible for placing a heavy emotional and financial cost on our society but who society cannot afford to throw away. I wanted to talk with these young men in an atmosphere that encouraged them to be frank and it was worth it.”
The dialogue with the inmates came at the end of a tour of Westgate conducted by Commissioner of Prisons Lt. Colonel Edward Lamb and his team. The Premier visited Medium Security Housing Unit and met with several prisoners in their cells. Finally in a room with fifteen prisoners, the Premier engaged, challenged and applauded the young men.
“The young men were very interested in breaking the public perception that they aren’t willing to work. Some said they would be prepared to dress in pink while chained together if it meant them being able to do something productive during their time in jail. Issues such as expanding their access to education and perhaps most significantly improving the level of psychological and psychiatric care available both in prison and for troubled youth were raised. Their ideas, concerns and suggestions will be taken back to Cabinet for consideration,” The Premier said.
The Premier concluded, “The men and women who make up Prison Commissioner Lamb’s team are often singled out for criticism, but I today I have witnessed a collection of talented and dedicated individuals under the leadership of a compassionate and bold agent for change. Great things are happening to improve the lives of the men in their care and our government is committed to giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
Wonder what they said to the good doctor. Suspect it was along the lines of wishing they knew the secrets to his success…