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Matthew Samuda, Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of National Security
Matthew Samuda, Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of National Security, has said it too early for a call for the early release of low risk inmates at the Horizon Adult Remand Centre.
Four inmates and one correctional officer have tested positive for COVID-19.
This has resulted in lockdown of the facility.
Carla Gullotta, Executive Director of Stand Up For Jamaica, has expressed concern at the development and said a formal request will be made to authorities for the release of those inmates not considered a threat.
But speaking with Radio Jamaica News on Monday, Mr. Samuda said there are sufficient protocols in place to protect all inmates.
"We've already been going through the process to look at how we treat our bedridden inmates, how those who are in need of deep medical care are treated. We're trying to ensure that they receive the care that they need so we're looking at putting in a prison infirmary, we are looking at those who should have been released because they've been held at court's pleasure or GG's (Governor General's) pleasure. So that process is underway, but as it relates to COVID, there are no considerations at this stage for that," he said.
Days after the first case of coronavirus was recorded in Jamaica, human rights advocates lobbied for the government to release certain categories of inmates because of the crowded prison system and the implications if there is an outbreak of COVID-19 at detention facilities.
The National Security Ministry indicated that the matter was not up for discussion.
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