As the year comes to a close and many wind down to spend time with family and friends, those who operate in the security forces will still be on duty this festive period. As for the Correctional Services, they play a vital role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of convicted persons back into society. CS Commissioner, Stephen Pokanis took the time to reflect on the year in celebration of the Christmas spirit. Commissioner Pokanis stated that it had been a tough year for the CS, having to deal with the loss of 5 servicemen with work being as hectic as ever. “In terms of work, it has been quite challenging for us. But looking at the good side, we have achieved a lot. More than we expected.” Close to 200 escapees were recorded to have escaped from correctional facilities in the country. This figure, according to CS Commissioner, Stephen Pokanis, has relatively decreased in recent years, compared to a few years ago when the average number of escapees was around 400 annually. The Commissioner stated that quite a number of prisoners had escaped from lawful custody this year. 197 prisoners escaped from various facilities around the country and Mr. Pokanis has said he is proud of all servicemen/women for giving their best to tackle the challenges that they have come across. “I can applaud all our CS officers for all their services. They have given their best amidst all the challenges we’ve faced.” One of the outstanding prisons to not have any recorded instances of escapes or attempts would be the Vanimo Correctional Institute in the West Sepik Province. It has also very positive year for the CS as they have increased the number of health workers from 12 to 46. The commissioner was delighted in stating that these are health workers that are trained and experienced in their field. “We recruited 16 health workers, these are trained, qualified and experienced in their field. From Community health workers to Nurses, including 4 Health extension officers who are working in almost all correctional institutes throughout the country.” In terms of budget, due to the struggling economy, the CS has tried their best to live within the budget and now at the end of the year there are still many challenges but Mr. Pokanis is optimistic that all will be in good hands. He thanked all service providers for enduring these tough times for being committed and truly appreciates their support. For the families that have members in prisons, the commissioner thanked them for their continued support to visiting them and giving the emotional and spiritual strength they need to better themselves for the future. “In that I wish all the prisoners and their families, the CS servicemen and women and their families the best for this year and we look forward to a better 2023.”