THE MINISTER'S STATEMENT

THE following statement was sent to us by the Ministry of Labour, Home
Affairs and Public Safety last night:

"WE react with concern to the allegation that there is a significant problem
with the smuggling of drugs into the island's correctional facilities. We
simply do not accept that this is the case. In fact, a number of policies,
practices and procedures are in place to stem this kind of activity.

"There is very little evidence to support the view that currently drugs are
being smuggled into Westgate Correctional Facility as alleged. The Ion Scan
Team, the Canine Unit and Correctional Officers continue to search the
facilities on a regular basis and very rarely discover illicit drugs. Also,
random urine tests are regularly conducted.

"Any inmate found with drugs in his or her possession is in breach of Prison
Rules and will face disciplinary action. Persons who test positive for drugs
are recommended for treatment as a first option. Failing that, disciplinary
action will occur.

"Food deliveries to the correctional facilities are checked on a regular
basis by the Canine Unit and the officers in charge of the kitchen at
Westgate Correctional Facility to ensure that drugs are not smuggled in and
made available for inmates.

"We would be naive in the extreme were we to assert that there are no
illicit drugs reaching our correctional facilities. However, we are
satisfied that the problem is not widescale."

Terry Lister