History was created on Friday July 31, 2020 as two hundred and fifty-two (252) recruits were inducted into the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service, the largest intake at any one time.

Delivering the feature address at the Passing Out Parade and Induction Ceremony held in honour of Batch # 660, Minister of National Security the Honourable Stuart R. Young M.P. described the event as a truly historic occasion. He commended the newly inducted prison officers for choosing to enter into a career of service to country and congratulated them on completing the rigorous training programme.

The Minister also recognized Prison Service instructors for their dedication in leading a comprehensive training programme and ensuring that the recruits are well prepared to perform as men and women of honour. Minister Young reminded the recruits of their crucial role in national security, noting that they are “tasked with the responsibility to protect society and prevent crime within the prison system by facilitating the rehabilitation of offenders, thus giving inmates the best chance of leading law-abiding and self-supporting lives upon their re-entry into society”. He urged the recruits to act with integrity at all times, demonstrate reliability and resist any influence to engage in or facilitate criminal activity. The Minister reiterated his commitment to ensuring the security of the members of the Prison Service, stating that he continues to promote an inter-agency approach to prison officer safety. He also indicated that it is the Ministry’s intention to procure additional quantities of stab-proof vests and handguns to complement those provided to the Prison Service last year, as part of sustained efforts to safeguard prison officers.

Minister Young also shared a number of infrastructural upgrades that are being undertaken at prison facilities. These include the upgrade of the Closed Circuit Television System (CCTV) at the Maximum Security Prison; improving the plumbing and electrical system at Remand Yard and reinforced fencing around prison facilities. Addressing the recruits, Acting Commissioner of Prisons Mr. Dennis Pulchan encouraged them to practice their training daily, always put their country first and to uphold exemplary moral and ethical values in the conduct of their duties. He called on the recruits to demonstrate leadership throughout their career and to seize every opportunity to contribute to the continued positive transformation of the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service.

Also in attendance at the Passing Out and Induction Ceremony, held at the Golden Grove Prison in Arouca, were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Security Mr. Vel Lewis and members of the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service Executive.