Easter support reaches Buimo inmates

Inmates at Buimo Correctional Institution in Lae received food, toiletries and medical supplies for Easter, bringing a message of care and inclusion during the Christian holiday.

Cartons of food rations including lamb flaps, sausages and rice were delivered to the facility. Each inmate also received goody bags containing basic toiletry items.

The support also helped the Buimo health centre, which is currently facing shortages while caring for detainees from the Highlands and Momase regions.

Health Extension Officer in charge Derrick Wai welcomed the assistance and said the support came at the right time.

"CS Buimo Health Center is looking after detainees from parts of Highlands, and Momase and medicine is currently insufficient for the total population benefitting from the health facility."

He said the assistance will help the clinic until new medical supplies arrive.

Wai also raised concerns about health challenges at the institution, including airborne diseases.

"Medicine is one of the basic rights of the detainees, but alot of times, priority is given to security and health remains as second."

"We are still faced with the challenge of minimising the airborne disease as TB, and thats the worry we always have in the institution."

The visit also carried a message that inmates should not be left out during important periods like Easter.

"We must treat everyone equally, and our inmates must also be included during such special periods like Easter. They mustn't feel left out," the member for Nawaeb, Theo Pelgen said.

The Easter support was provided by Mr Pelgen and the Nawaeb District Development Authority, who delivered the food, toiletry packs and medical supplies.

Mr Pelgen also called on other Members of Parliament and business stakeholders to help Buimo Correctional Institution, especially the health facility, which continues to face medicine shortages.