The Ministry of National Security has embarked on the transformation of the over 200-year-old correctional system as a part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.
The transformation will take a multi-pronged approach which includes bolstering the prison management and reinforcing the administrative and security framework of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).
The leadership transition which takes effect today, April 11, 2019, involves the appointment of retired Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col) Gary Rowe, as the new Commissioner of Corrections at the DCS and the appointment of Ms. Ina Hunter as the Chief Programme Office (CPO) in the Ministry.
Lieutenant Colonel Rowe, who served as an Officer in the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) for 32 years, has amassed a wealth of security and management experience and will extend his contributions to the national security portfolio as Head of the DCS.
The newly appointed Commissioner of Corrections holds a Masters Degree in International Security and Strategy from Kings College London, England and expertise Human Resource Development.
Lieutenant Colonel Rowe will focus on strengthening management and operational systems within the DCS.
While Ms. Hunter will be spearheading special investment projects to facilitate the capacity building initiatives of the DCS as part of the Ministry’s thrust to modernize and transform the Department.
Ms. Hunter, with over 20 years’ experience in the correctional services, will provide critical support to the Ministry’s transformational thrust with a strategic focus on creating greater self-sufficiency within the institutions and the implementation of direct rehabilitation initiatives.