A structurally unsafe wing at His Majesty’s Prison could collapse while housing approximately 150 inmates, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has warned.

Browne disclosed the concern Saturday during the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM, describing the construction of replacement accommodation as an urgent necessity.

The prime minister said acting prison Superintendent Jermaine Anthony had informed the government that the wing was structurally unsound and could collapse at any time.

“The last thing we want is that facility to collapse and prisoners to get hurt or die, for that matter,” Browne said.

He said the government must build replacement accommodation as quickly as possible to prevent a potential disaster.

Browne made the comments while responding to criticism that the government was prioritising a new prison over other public infrastructure needs.

He rejected the suggestion that the administration intends to construct a luxurious facility for convicted criminals, saying the immediate project is driven by safety concerns.

Browne said His Majesty’s Prison dates to 1735 and has not been properly maintained. He described the affected wing as being in an abandoned condition despite continuing to shelter about 150 inmates.

“It is a matter of urgency. It’s a matter of need for us to build something for them,” Browne said.

The prime minister also clarified that an estimated EC$5 million would apply to replacement accommodation rather than an entirely new prison.

He said constructing a complete modern prison could cost between EC$50 million and EC$60 million.

No construction date or timeline for relocating the affected inmates was announced.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: VIDEO: PM Browne Says Unsafe Prison Wing Could Collapse With 150 Inmates Inside.