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
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)
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 ).
To interface with the Ministry of Home Land, Permanent Secretary/ Head of Department and other Ministries on any matter affecting Prisons Officers. Eg. Act 22 of 1996 Compensation for injury or death occurring in the line of duty, Medical Board etc.
To provide legal advice and representation in matters arising out of the performance of official duties.
To promote, protect and preserve the rights, privileges and entitlements of our members.
To educate and inform members about issues affecting their profession eg. OSHA, Task Force Report 2002, Coroners Act, Judgments of the Courts etc.
To promote the professional, productive and disciplined performance of our members.
To promote social events and entertainment for members and their families.
To develop relationships with other organisations that will serve to benefit the members in a holistic manner eg. Housing, Medical Insurance, Banking etc.
To collaborate with the Prison Administration to develop, enhance and advance the T & T Prison Service.
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.
