New Island probation centre unveiled

A new probation centre aiming to rehabilitate offenders has been officially opened this week.

Tromode House, on the outskirts of Douglas, was unveiled on Monday and is aiming to provide a range of support and interventions to help offenders address their behaviour and reintegrate into society.

As well as housing the offices of the Probation Service, the facility also provides flexible and secure accommodation and a ‘stepping stone’ base for offenders released from prison on licence, subject to community sentences or on bail from the police or the courts.

The complex was opened in memory of former Home Affairs Minister, Bill Malarkey who championed the project during his time in office and a plaque to mark the occasion was presented by his widow, Pamela Birnie-Malarkey.

Current Home Affairs Minister, Graham Cregeen MHK, says: "We are proud as a department of what has been created at Tromode House. We have a spacious, bespoke centre with modern facilities for staff and residents, where offenders can be supported to reintegrate back into the community and change their lives for the better.

"My predecessor as Minister took a strong personal interest in this project and it is right that we acknowledge his commitment at the opening. Bill would have been proud."

The Community Service team located there works in partnership with charities, local authorities and other agencies, organising community service work to offenders.