Two days CJS forum ends in Luganville

A two-day workshop in Luganville conducted by the Department of Correctional Services to educate community leaders about their roles as community justice supervisors has ended successfully Tuesday this week.

The training hosted at the Subenatavuitano Council of Chief, Nakamal at Sanma Provincial headquarters accommodated 33 participants consisting of chiefs, pastors and other leaders from South Santo, East Santo, Fanafo, Malo and Luganville communities.

The workshop was opened Monday by the newly appointed Manager Management Services, Mr Steven Meto on behalf of the Director of Correctional and Minister for Justice who were not able to fly to Santo due their busy schedules.

During the two days training the participants were taught the roles of the Community Justice supervisors and what is expected from them when they are managing offenders on community based sentences of parole, community work and supervision.

There were four areas targeted during the workshop which included ensuring offender complying with their sentences, reducing the chances of re-offending, building and strengthening partnerships and enhancing capability.

There was also a brain storming session where participants indicated how they wanted their communities to look in the future.

President of the Subenatavuitano Council of Chief of Sanma Province, Chief Salerani reminded the participants to ensure they work closely with probation officers to ensure offenders complied with the conditions of their sentences.

As part of their recognition for their attendance, certificates were awarded to them at the end at the official closing ceremony.

Community justice supervisors are voluntarily roles.

Their tasks are assisting Probation officers with community-based sentences particularly in very remote areas. Community Justice Supervisor doesn’t have any powers of enforcement. Enforcement actions are made by probation officers when an offender does not comply with his or her sentences.

Caption: Participants and officer from the Department of Correctional Services pose for a picture