Parliment Pass Correctional Services Act

An amendment to the Correctional Services Act has been passed, which enables foreigners serving prison terms in Solomon Islands to apply to serve or complete their terms in their home country.

The Bill seeking the amendment was tabled by the Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Samuel Manetoali today, and was passed in its Third reading.

It seeks changes to section 74 of the Correctional Services Act.Under the change, a foreigner serving a term of over three months may apply in writing to the minister to be transferred to his country of citizenship to complete the term.

It also requires a written consent from the relevant government of his country of residence.The Amendment also include that if the minister is satisfied with the application, an agreement must be signed with the prisoners relevant authority and the Minister responsible for Correctional Services.

It also states that after an agreement is signed, the Commissioner of prison shall apply to a judge for an order to effect the transfer.Under the changes, the cost of transfer would be paid by the prisoner.

Source: SIBC