Prison inmates therapeutic programme extended for another year
The ‘Persons In Prison Therapeutic Community’, formerly known as the Prison Inmates Programme, is set to continue through 2027
A therapeutic programme to help prisoners recover from drugs and prepare to reintegrate into the community has been extended for an additional year.
In a statement, the Home Affairs Ministry said the ‘Persons In Prison Therapeutic Community’, formerly known as the Prison Inmates Programme, would now extend to 2027, with overall funding boosted to €2 million to cover the costs.
It was allocated €1.3 million when it was first announced in 2024. At the time, it was set to continue until 2026.
The programme is run as a partnership between the government and Caritas Malta and provided in a home environment in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri stressed the programme represented a focus on rehabilitation, rather than just punishment, and that Malta’s prison facilities are now drug-free.
“We want every person in prison to have a real opportunity to rebuild their life and return to society as a better citizen”, said Camilleri.
The minister also stressed that the renaming of the programme better reflects the reality of the project.
Caritas Malta director Anthony Gatt thanked the ministry and Correctional Services Agency (CSA) for their collaboration, calling the programme a clear example of commitment to rehabilitation.
Gatt added that Caritas Malta remained committed to continuing to assist individuals and their families as part of an aftercare service.