Corrections Chief visit IPG

Buala, Isabel Province – The Commissioner of the Correctional Service Solomon Islands (CSSI), Mr. Mactus Forau, recently paid a courtesy visit to the Isabel Provincial Government (IPG) in the Provincial Capital, Buala.

The courtesy visit is purposely to seek the support of the Isabel Provincial Government in identifying and allocating suitable land for the development of a new low correctional facility, under the CSSI mandate.

Commissioner Mactus Forau expressed his infrastructure strategic plan to the Acting Premier of Isabel Province Executives and Heads of Departments of IPG.

He adds CSSI is one of the three key components of the Solomon Islands’ Criminal Justice System, alongside the Police and the Courts. As a vital law enforcement agency, CSSI continues to face challenges in securing adequate land to carry out its core functions—particularly in the safe custody, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates.

Commissioner says, I am committed to supporting the strategic infrastructure development goals of CSSI. The proposed facility for Isabel aligns with our broader rehabilitation and reintegration framework and will play a crucial role in improving correctional services, while also contributing to the province’s socio-economic development and overall security.

Acting Premier of IPG, Hon Josiah Laumana on behalf of his Executives and Head of IPG Departments do acknowledge the presence of Commissioner and delegation for the timely visit to the province.

IPG, under the leadership of Premier Hon Lawrence Hayward thru his Acting Premier pronounced that they fully supported the initiative to build a new correctional facility under their jurisdiction.

IPG will meet in coming weeks to affirm their commitments in identifying and allocating suitable land for the development of a new low correctional facility in Isabel Province, says Acting Premier.

Meanwhile Paramount Chief of Maringe, Chief Clement Rojumana, on behalf of Isabel House of Chiefs under the Triopod system, he fully supports the establishment of a new correctional facility in the province going forward.

“Having a new correctional facility in Isabel Province is a strategic and necessary investment to strengthen the national justice system and promote equitable service delivery. I call on IPG for prioritisation in the provincial development and infrastructure agendas”, says Chief Rojumana

Commissioner Forau acknowledge IPG for their commitment, willingness and support to collaborate with CSSI, and also support in conducting CSSI crime prevention awareness and Yellow Ribbon Program in the surrounding communities of Buala.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the IPG Executives, Head of Departments, Honourable Speaker of Isabel Province, Provincial Police Commander and staff for your invaluable support in making this visit a success”.

Commissioner also acknowledge Paramount Chief of Maringe, Chief Clement Rojumana, for his support and the spirit of partnership you have demonstrated on behalf of the Chiefs and traditional leadership.

“Your unwavering and phenomenal support signifies a strong partnership and commitment to advancing Corrections in the province”, says Forau.

The trip was jointly funded by Solomon Islands Government (SIG) and the Australian Solomon Islands Partnership for Justice. (ASIPJ) DFAT.

Ends///.

CSSI Commissioner Mactus Forau give a talk to the IPG Executives and HoDs of his official visit to the province.

Photo: (L-R) Minister of Works Hon Frank Gregory and Minister of Finance, Acting Premier Hon Josiah Laumana during the consultation with Commissioner and Delegation of the proposal to build a new facility for Isabel.

Honourable Speaker of Isabel Province, Eddie Kanizama Kopala (former correctional officer) echoed his point of view on the proposal to build a new correctional facility.

Commissioner Forau leading the consultation for a proposed site to build a new correctional facility for Isabel province inside the Provincial Chamber.