While there the Minister interacted with both male and female inmates and held discussions with senior officials of the Guyana Prison Service on ways in which they can carry out their duties more efficiently, according to a statement from the Government Information Agency (GINA).

GINA said the Minister heard requests from prisoners on a wide range of issues. Some of these included an increase in educational opportunities that are being offered and the expedition of trials. There were also pleas of innocence from several inmates.

GINA said Mr. Gajraj also pledged assistance to one prisoner for the acquisition of a pair of spectacles. While interacting with the females, Minister Gajraj urged them to remain focused. He urged the authorities to concentrate on ensuring that reforms are carried out in a positive manner.

The Home Affairs Minister also commented that he is generally pleased with the conditions of the facility.

Accompanying the Minister were Divisional Commander, ‘B’ Division, Mr. Paul Slow; Officer in Charge of the New Amsterdam Prison, Mr. Trevor Small; Staff Officer Assistant Commissioner, Mr. Ovid Glasgow; Regional Chairman, Mr. Kumkarran Ramdass; and Members of Parliament, Mr. Zulifikar Mustapha and Mr. Ramesh Rajkumar.