The minister's disclosure came just after the commission of enquiry into the May 22 fire at the Armadale Juvenile Correctional Centre in Alexandria, St Ann, wrapped up its deliberations last week.

The deliberations highlighted startling revelations in relation to poor administrative practices at the ill-fated juvenile centre where seven wards of the state perished.

Nelson told The Gleaner the report was at an advanced stage.

"I inherited what I considered to be an unacceptable situation as far as juvenile centres are concerned," Nelson said.

The minister suggested that the substandard condition of the juvenile system existed from as far back as 2000.

"I have instructed that our approach to the management of these institutions be revisited in the shortest possible time," the minister added.

"I expect to be able to bring to Cabinet a report on the effort shortly."

Following 32 days of questioning involving police, correctional officials, administrators and wards, Justice Paul Harrison, the man leading the commission of enquiry, is to submit a report to Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.