Opposition spokesman on National Security, Derrick Smith, has urged the Government to increase non-custodial penalties for persons who commit crimes.

"We cannot continue to concentrate purely on enforcement. We have to prioritise prevention and rehabilitation, if we are serious about reducing crime and violence," Mr. Smith said.

He was making reference to the recent contract between the Department of Correctional Services and the Ministry of Education for inmates to manufacture furniture for schools. According to Mr. Smith, this will steer young people away from a life of crime.

He was speaking yesterday at the awards ceremony for recipients of the National Medal of Honour for long service and good conduct within the Department of Correctional Services held at the Terra Nova Hotel, New Kingston.

Opportunities for inmates

The Opposition spokesman said the initiative provided opportunities for inmates to learn something new for re-entry into society.

"I hope the ministry will be encouraged by the successes that are being achieved," he added.

Commenting that over 400 persons last year received non-custodial sentences, Mr. Smith argued that there was still room for penalties such as community service.

The opposition spokesman commended the Correctional Services for the reduction in violence and serious problems that plagued the service for many years.

Earlier this year, 30 inmates from both the Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre in St. Catherine and the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Facility manufactured 1,000 desks and benches valued at $3.8 million for the education sector.

This was in keeping with the Ministry of Education and Youth's new thrust to procure school furniture from local contractors.