Steve Barrett to leave Prison Service next month

Commenting on Director Barrett's imminent departure, Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Bernie Bush said: “While we are sorry to see him leave, we support Director Barrett's decision and would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his tremendous contribution to HMCIPS. He has been integral to improving and developing the prison estate, strengthening relations between the prison service and the community, and has played a key role in ensuring that the prison system is prepared for the COVID-19 pandemic.  As a valued leader in the Home Affairs Team, we wish Director Barrett continued success in the future.”

Commenting on his decision to leave Director Barrett said: “The circumstances that I am leaving under are personal in nature and require that I return to Scotland at this time.  I would like to thank the Ministry of Home Affairs, my incredible colleagues at HMCIPS, the partner agencies, and the community, who have continued to show support over the years.

“At this time, the focus of the Prison Service remains fixed on managing our way through the challenges presented by the current community to prison COVID infections while effectively delivering a critical public service,” he continued.

Acting Chief Officer for the Ministry of Home Affairs Michael Ebanks said: “It has been a privilege to work with Director Barrett.  We fully respect and support the personal decision that he has made and ask that the media and members of the public respect his privacy at this time.  Our Ministry has already begun implementing its business continuity procedures to ensure a smooth and successful transition.  An announcement about prison management arrangements will be made in due course.”