T&T opens detention centre for illegal immigrants

Trinidad and Tobago has opened its first Immigration Detention Centre (IDC) for illegal aliens.

National Security Minister Martin Joseph formally opened the facility Wednesday at Aripo, in Eastern Trinidad, calling it a significant step in the Government’s thrust "to effectively arrest this country’s growing illegal immigration problem."

Joseph said, "Strengthening the nation’s capacity to detain illegal immigrants and other aliens subjected to deportation is a key component of the comprehensive strategy to deter illegal immigration into Trinidad and Tobago."

Until now, people deemed to be illegal immigrants have had to be held at prisons with convicted felons. A total of 215 foreign nationals are currently being held in prisons.

Joseph said prior to the establishment of the IDC prohibited immigrants were detained at the Maximum Security Prison at Golden Grove, Arouca.

He noted that holding people under such conditions was not in keeping with international standards and acknowledged that it was the best option available.

"While this short-term measure was not in keeping with international best practice, the maximum-security prison as the nation’s most modern correctional facility was the best option available," Joseph said.

"It would only be operated as a means for short-term detention of non-nationals and will not be facilitated as a prison or correctional facility. The long-term aim is to ensure that these migrants can be successfully repatriated to their respective countries after due process," Joseph said.

The centre's staff will comprise retirees from the prisons and police service, as well as immigration officers.

The first batch of detainees is expected to arrive at the IDC Thursday. Joseph said within the next two weeks, the entire transition from the prison will be completed.

The new facility can hold 150 detainees. That means the facility would likely be immediately overcrowded if all of the current 215 detainees are transferred or 65 people now being held in prisons would have to stay there.