Prime Minister Hon Sitiveni Rabuka today reminded new recruits of the Fiji Corrections Service to protect the rights of persons deprived of liberty.
In his official address at the passing out parade in Naboro, the Prime Minister emphasised International Obligations Under the Nelson Mandela Rules to the 52 new recruits.
“They may be deprived of liberty but they have rights. You’re not here to punish them, you have learned about your duties as custodians of those under your care,” Hon. Rabuka said.
He also congratulated the new recruits for succesfully completing the 10-weeks training despite the difficulties they faced.
“I’m sure you are celebrating individually and we congratulate you.
“You have been through many aspects of training such as English proficiency, psychological assessment, institutional orientation, medical test and fitness test. You’ve learned about leadership, rehabilitation and you’ve also learned about yourself, and your responsibilities in correctional services legislations.
“Discipline is an art. It is the ethos of self-behavior that makes you a responsible member of your country and of your nation and of your organisation.”
The Head of the Coalition Government also urged the recruits to always set an example.
“Be proud of that. Be proud, even more of the responsibility that the nation is placing upon your shoulders to help rehabilitate those that are put under your care through investigative prosecution and judgments of the courts,” he further highlighted.
“They are brought here for you to look after them as they re-orientate back to civil life out of this establishment.”
Meanwhile, the event was attended by about 200 people including families, friends and well-wishers.
After the event, the executive management of the FCS hosted the Prime Minister to a tour of the Naboro Corrections Facility where he was briefed on site about its daily operations.
He toured the farms, bakery, joinery, garment room, piggery, poultry, and beef units; initiatives that target the upskilling of inmates before they reintergrate back into society.
Award winners at today’s parade include;
*Best Recruit in Drill – Laisiasa Radrodro from Nacavanadi in Gau;
*Best Recruit in Physical Training – Apisai Gonewai from Tonia, Tai Vugalei in Tailevu;
*Best Detachment in Drill – Detachment Number 1 Alipate Gagabalavu from Mabula in Cicia, Lau
*Baton of Honor Award Displaying Exceptional Performance in Theoretical and Practical aspects of the training – Iokimi Dia from Kalokolevu Village.
