Minister launches Learning & Skills Strategy during prison visit

5.25.00pm GMT Wed 28th Jul 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford today launched a 'Learning and Skills Strategic Plan 2010-13' for the Prison Service, during his first ministerial visit to Magilligan Prison.

The Strategy sets out the key aims and objectives for education and training services and focuses on the need to develop strong partnerships with prisoners, prison staff and other service providers. The Strategy emphasises the need to provide education and training opportunities that will help prisoners gain employment and reintegrate successfully into communities on release.

Speaking at the prison the Minister said: "Preventing offending requires a joined up approach across a wide range of Departments and service providers. I will be meeting my Executive colleagues to discuss how we can develop such an approach. Prisoners are incarcerated by the courts as a punishment for committing crime. When in the care of the Prison Service it is our duty, together with partner organisations, to provide a range of tailored services to prepare each prisoner for release and to reduce the risk of reoffending.

"The new Learning and Skills Strategy provides a firm foundation for continuous improvement. I will be seeking regular progress reports on its implementation and am fully committed to its objectives."

During his visit the Minister also visited art and education classes and viewed accommodation units. He also met members of the Magilligan Prison Re-development Programme Board, was briefed on design concepts for a replacement prison and potential redevelopment options.

The Minister said: "Work on preparing the outline business case for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison is ongoing but ultimately it will be for the Executive to determine spending priorities in respect of major capital projects.

"The visit has also allowed me to see the significant improvements already made in the delivery of Learning and Skills at Magilligan, and I note the positive comments made by HMIP/CJI Inspectors, during their recent inspection on the progress that has been made through the hard work and commitment of staff.

"I look forward to the publication of this report in the near future."