The reopening of Antigua and Barbuda’s Boys Training School has been postponed yet again, according to Junior Social Transformation Minister, Senator Samantha Marshall.
The delay comes after a recent break-in resulted in damage to the newly renovated facility.
“Just on the heels of it being open, some furnishings have been delivered, and unfortunately we had a break-in which resulted in some damage to the actual structure,” Marshall explained.
She added that National Housing is working to complete the necessary repairs.
Despite these setbacks, Marshall emphasised that the reopening will bring positive changes.
The facility is implementing new training programmes for staff to ensure they meet international standards.
“We want a situation where [the boys] are reintegrated back into the family structure, back into the community structure, and not seen or tagged as bad boys,” Marshall stated.
The Boys Training School, a correctional facility for delinquent boys aged 10 to 18, has been undergoing renovations to address its deplorable conditions for over four years.
In May, officials reported that the renovation was nearing completion.
The facility has faced challenges since its closure at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, including an incident where two youngsters allegedly stole contents worth nearly $20,000.
While no specific reopening date has been announced, it appears the facility may not welcome residents for several more months as repairs and staff training continue.
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