Allow me, dear readers, to introduce you to my current CXC English language class in YTC.Eight months ago, I chose these lads because they are, for the most part, in remand for capital murder charges. There is much I can say about these students, but I would rather have them speak for themselves:"My name is S. I have been in prison at YTC for four years, and I came here at 15. I spent two years in magistrates court. Currently my case is in Port-of-Spain High Court where I have not received a fixed trial date.
"I wish there were more programmes for capital-charged lads to occupy their time instead of wasting it behind non-profitable things like drugs. I would like to do plumbing and masonry. "I sit and wait and I don't know my future. I don't know when I'm going home. When you're in remand there's nothing you can do. If you are convicted you can go and cut grass and do a trade."
"My name is M. I've been at YTC for 1.5 years. I am 18. I'm going to magistrates court now. I've been to court 18 times in 18 months. Every time my case is mentioned in court. I'm just waiting for the prosecution to get evidence and files. I'm ready. My lawyer is ready. I'm waiting for the State to be ready. When I go to court I feel like I'll get to start my case.
"Then, as I walk up the stairs, I feel sad because I know it will be postponed. Life has become like a recurring decimal. Being in remand means no hope. We live like dogs in a kennel. We're fighting for survival.""My name is D. I have been in YTC remand for 1 � years–but not for a capital murder charge."I would not like anyone to be in remand. Sometimes at night I feel hurt knowing my family really loves me and supports me and I am in prison."
http://www.guardian.co.tt/digital/new-members