Applications are being sought for the role of Isle of Man prison governor and head of the probation service.

The present governor, Alison Gomme, who has been in the post for six years, is set to retire at the end of March next year.

Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson said: 'Alison Gomme has made an outstanding contribution to the Island’s prison and probation
service during her time in the post. The department is looking for an exceptional candidate to continue that positive work.'

The Department of Home Affairs is warning that the years ahead will be particularly challenging, with a greater focus on prevention, rehabilitation and alternative forms of justice so that custody is reserved for more serious and persistent offenders.

Last week a call was made by the family of Gwen Valentine, a pedestrian killed by a car driven by St John's man Donavan Kitching, who was on parole, for an investigation into the rehabilitation of prisoners. The Department of Home Affairs has launched an inquiry.

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