Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, toured the Westgate Correctional Facility and met prison officers and inmates to get feedback about the state of the facility.

Mr Weeks was joined by Keeva Joell-Benjamin, the Commissioner of Corrections, along with her senior management team and representatives of the Prison Officer’s Association during the tour on Friday.

A government spokeswoman said: “Mr Weeks was able to assess the corrections facility, which he acknowledged due to ageing, was faced with increased maintenance needs.

“Another important aspect of the visit was appreciating the challenges and concerns facing the inmate population, which can vary based on their age range. Friday's visit afforded minister Weeks the opportunity to meet with the POA and the Inmate Association.”

Mr Weeks highlighted the necessary work done by the island’s uniformed services to protect the island.

“We know the pressures they face on a daily basis, so it's important for me to engage with each of these areas to listen and discuss matters that are important to them,” he said.

“Their wellbeing remains a priority for the ministry, and it's critical that their working environments are places where they can perform at their best.

"I'm grateful to the commissioner and her team for the tour of the facility and I'm also grateful for the opportunity to sit down with the POA and Inmate Association and have candid discussions about the challenges faced by both staff and inmates at the corrections facilities."