PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling appeared before Parliament to deliver a comprehensive update on the situation at the Pointe Blanche prison in the aftermath of the May 14 fire and subsequent unrest. The Minister's address highlighted the immediate steps taken to restore safety and order, while also addressing long-standing concerns raised by inmates.
Concerns Voiced by Detainees
Minister Tackling revealed that she had engaged in direct conversations with inmates, where several grievances were brought to light. Detainees expressed dissatisfaction with inconsistencies in early release procedures, insufficient structured programming, and a lack of clear communication regarding their legal status and rights. Many also lamented the limited availability of day-to-day activities within the prison, echoing their frustrations with the slow progress of rehabilitation initiatives.
“They told me plainly: ‘We have nothing to do,’” the Minister said. She further explained that agreements to introduce rehabilitation programs with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and other partners were in progress before the fire, stating that these initiatives remain a priority. However, she emphasized that the immediate focus is on restoring order and ensuring the safety of both inmates and staff.
The issue of fairness in early release procedures also emerged during her discussions. Some inmates questioned why individuals facing similar charges, such as armed robbery, were being released quickly from police detention, while others remained incarcerated at Pointe Blanche. The Minister clarified the distinction between pretrial detention and sentencing but acknowledged the detainees’ frustration. “If I were in their position, I’d feel the same way,” she admitted.
Handling the Crisis
Recounting the events of May 14 and 15, Minister Tackling assured Parliament that all inmates had been safely relocated within the facility by the morning after the fire. She expressed gratitude to the Marines for their logistical support and noted that structural assessments conducted by the Fire Department, VROMI engineers, and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) had confirmed the building's structural integrity. Nonetheless, she stated that complete restoration is contingent upon specialized cleaning and further testing, which remain ongoing.
The Minister confirmed that reinforcements are on the way to address the strain on the prison system and its staff. Fourteen officers from Aruba and Curaçao are expected to arrive this week, while six detainees will be transferred to Bonaire. Minister Tackling acknowledged the immense pressure on local personnel but commended their resilience, stating, “Despite the crisis, our people have stepped up and stood together.”
She also provided updates on the injuries sustained during the unrest, reporting that three inmates suffered minor burns and are receiving necessary medical attention. While one individual initially refused treatment, he was subsequently cared for at an emergency facility and continues to be monitored.
Temporary Restrictions and Legal Measures
Addressing concerns regarding the suspension of visitation and certain inmate privileges, Minister Tackling cited the legal framework under Articles 31 and 32 of prison regulations as the basis for these measures. She emphasized that such restrictions are reassessed every 24 hours and extended only when deemed absolutely necessary for safety.
Plans for Pointe Blanche’s Future
Despite the ongoing crisis, Minister Tackling assured Parliament that long-term reform plans remain on track. She confirmed that the Pointe Blanche Prison Redevelopment Project is proceeding as scheduled, with the tender process in motion and construction expected to begin in October 2025. The project's first phase aims to increase the facility’s capacity from 80 to 120 inmates by the end of 2026.
Simultaneously, administrative reforms in the justice system continue to move forward. The Minister announced that Batch 13 of the justice worker placement process has been finalized, with work on Batches 14 and 15 progressing as planned. “This process is a priority and will not be delayed by the crisis,” she stated.
A Commitment to Stability and Growth
Closing her address, Minister Tackling reaffirmed her commitment to restoring stability, improving communication, and strengthening the justice system. “This crisis has tested all of us,” she said. “But it has also shown our ability to respond, listen, and grow stronger through adversity.”
Her remarks were met with a call to action for continued collaboration across the justice chain to address the immediate challenges and long-term goals at Pointe Blanche Prison.
