AFTER reading the report, "Labour of love gets inmates an hour with family" (my paper, July 2), I was surprised that prison inmates like Linda see their family members for only half an hour every month.
To prisoners, families and loved ones are an important source of care and concern, especially during such a dark period in their lives.
The authorities should consider letting them have more time - say, an hour every month - to be with their families, so that they can plan for their future before completing their jail term.
People like Linda who wish to further their studies should be given every opportunity to do so, while those seeking employment should be judged solely on merit.
Their criminal records should not be an obstacle to their securing jobs, promotions or salary increments.
Former offenders see employment as a crucial step towards re-integration into society.
Every effort should be made to ensure that they are treated with respect and fairness.
Besides the annual Yellow Ribbon Art Competition, which enables inmates to bond with their family and show off their talents, the recent cooking contest to celebrate Father's Day was another good opportunity for inmates' children to be with their fathers.
Inmates must have a sense of hope and self-confidence, and it is imperative that close family members help them adjust to life outside prison when they are released.
More importantly, former inmates who are determined to turn over a new leaf should get all the help that they need.
