A discussion on establishing a joint mechanism at the Kegalle Remand Prison, as part of a programme to further streamline the welfare services provided to inmates and to ensure coordination among government institutions in the event of an emergency situation within prisons, was held yesterday (01) afternoon under the chairmanship of the Minister of Justice and National Integration, Attorney-at-Law Harshana Nanayakkara.
The Minister briefed officials on measures to be taken to respond to emergency situations that may arise within prisons, further improve welfare facilities for inmates—which is identified as one of the main factors contributing to conflicts within prisons—and provide necessary assistance to inmates’ families through the intervention of government institutions. The discussion also focused on improving the space and facilities available at the Kegalle Remand Prison.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Justice also participated in an inspection of the operations at the Kegalle Remand Prison.
The Minister also briefed the inmates on the measures being taken by the Government to expedite the issuance of Government Analyst reports, in particular.
Kegalle District Secretary K.G.S. Nishantha, Kegalle Divisional Secretary Priyangani Peththangoda, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Kegalle area Dinesh Karunaranayake, Major General R.P.S.P. Randunu, and Kegalle Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Vajira Edirisinghe, together with officials representing various government institutions, including the Ceylon Electricity Board, Fire and Rescue Services, and the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, were present at the occasion.
