Brief History and Purpose of the Prison Officers’ Association

POA Brief History

The Prison Officers Association of Trinidad and Tobago gained recognition by the Government  of Trinidad and Tobago on May 2nd 1967, by Dr. Eric Williams. Act No. 32 of 1965 in Trinidad  and Tobago is the Prison Service Act, which established, classified, and regulated the Prison  Service. Assented to in 1965 and commenced on August 27, 1966, this act dictates the negotiation  procedures between the Government and prison officers, including classification, compensation,  and disciplinary matters.  
The first President of the POATT was Mr. Phillip Felician, and the first General Secretary was Mr.  Hollison Stewart, who authored the organization’s constitution, which was registered with the  office of Registrar General to provide for ultimate oversight of the operations of the organization  according to Chapter 13:02 The Prison Service Act. 
Initially, Prison Officers were part of the Civil Service Association (CSA) and were a branch  within the organization. However, with recognition came autonomy and the liberty to advocate  directly with the Personnel Department for Prison Officers.

Purpose of the Prison Officers’ Association

1. To negotiate and consult with the employer (Personnel Department) on behalf of 2nd division Prison Officers regarding salaries, terms and conditions of employment (Prison  Act Chapter.13:02) 
2. To interface with and represent officers at the Public Service Commission Department  (PSC) regarding issues of appointment, promotion/examinations, transfers, discipline and  termination on behalf of Prison Officers PSC Regulations. 1966, Code of Conduct 1990 
3. To interface with the Ministry of National Security, Permanent Secretary/ Head of  Department and other Ministries on any matter affecting Prison Officers. Eg. Act 22 of 1996 Compensation for injury or death occurring in the line of duty, Medical  Board etc. 
4. To provide legal advice and representation in matters arising out of the performance of  official duties 
5. To promote, protect and preserve the rights, privileges and entitlements of our members  
6. To educate and inform members about issues affecting their profession eg. OSHA, Task  Force Report 2002, Coroners Act, Judgments of the Courts etc. 
7. To promote the professional, productive and disciplined performance of our members
8. To promote social events and entertainment for members and their families 
9. To develop relationships with other organisations that will serve to benefit the members  in a holistic manner eg. Housing, Medical Insurance, Banking etc 
10. To collaborate with the Prison Administration to develop, enhance and advance the T  & T Prison Service 
11. To train members in the field of Industrial Relations, Cooperative Studies,  Occupational Safety and Health and other disciplines to preserve the legacy of the  Association and to facilitate the emergence of new leaders 
12. To be the public voice of Prison Officers