Australian High Commissioner visits Rove Corrections

The Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Dr Lachlan Strahan has recently made an official visit to Rove Central Correctional Centre (RCCC) purposely to meet staff and gain a deeper understanding of some of the significant challenges of the sector, and witness the progression of its programs.

This official visit was made possible through an invitation by Correctional Services Solomon Islands (CSSI) Commissioner Mr Gabriel Manelusi.

Dr Strahan’s visit to Rove Corrections was the first of its kind for High Commissioner since Commissioner Manelusi took up his role in late 2019.

Speaking during the official visit, RCCC Commandant Mr Chris Bwekulyi acknowledged the Australian High Commissioner for his tremendous visit, and the Australian Government, which is a major donor to the Centres.

He said the support signified solidarity and common virtues as we progress the development of Corrections.

Commandant Bwekulyi also acknowledged Australian Government funding support for major infrastructure development projects, technical advisors, professional development programs for officers, progression of rehabilitation and reintegration programs that have been approved under a Direct Funding Agreement.

High Commissioner Strahan thanked Commissioner Manelusi and his team for showing him around Rove Correctional Centre.

“Correctional Services Solomon Islands does a vital job managing six facilities across the country”.

“I am glad Australia is helping to support its important work through the Solomon Islands Justice Program”, says Strahan.

CSSI Commissioner Gabriel Manelusi said, he was extremely grateful for the ongoing provisions of support provided by the Australian Government through existing agreements with the Solomon Island Government and supporting Ministries.

“CSSI is presently like most agencies within essential services of the government, very much struggling to meet core business responsibilities under existing reduced budgets including maintaining existing facilities and infrastructure arrangements,” said Manelusi.

The CSSI Commissioner and his Executives, along with Commandant RCCC and his Management, are very grateful to have received the tremendous visit and mutual interest and supports given to the organisation.

Commissioner Manelusi thanked His Excellency Dr Lachlan Strahan and members of his High Commission team, Governance Counsellor Mr Andrew Elborn and Program Manager Justice Mr Frank Fono for the visit.

“CSSI will continue to strive to achieve its obligations despite challenges faced and will continue to improve, strengthen and implement positive changes as we progress the future of our organization together,”said Manelusi.