Women are allowed to keep their children who are under five years old with them in prison. However, children in prison do not receive the facilities they require for healthy growth and development, such as access to suitable and nutritious food, to preschool, toys and books. Children may also not be taken for periodic visits to a paediatrician as this is subject to logistical limitations. 19. Prisoners with Disabilities Prisoners with disabilities are arguably one of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in the prison system, primarily because of the poor provision of disability access. The Commission observed that elderly prisoners experience similar problems as prisoners with disabilities due to age-related illnesses and impaired mobility. Dilapidated stairs and the lack of railings were commonly seen in the prison hospital and wards. Prisoners with lower body disabilities complained about the difficulties they face in completing the most basic functions, such as using the toilet, since most prisons only contain urinals or squat toilets. These prisoners are completely reliant on the good will and assistance of their wardmates to perform basic functions. Elderly inmates often find it difficult to receive medical treatment for the symptoms they develop over time due to the overburdened prison healthcare system. The prison is usually unable to provide prisoners with disability aides, such as wheelchairs, prosthetics and white canes, which are sourced by prisons through donations. The Commission was informed that a Medical Board, which is tasked with deciding if a prisoner can be discharged on compassionate release due to their physical or mental impairments, is rarely convened. The procedure involves an application on behalf of the relevant prisoner being submitted to the Ministry of Health, which then convenes a Medical Board comprising of an expert on the candidate’s condition. The non-functioning of the Medical Board is due to the procedure involving coordination and cooperation between three entities: Department of Prisons, Ministry of Justice and Minister of Health. For instance, the Commission was informed by the Ministry of Health and the Department of Prisons, of two different and contrasting procedures to convene the Medical Board indicating the lack of clear systems. As a result of overlapping duties and bad communication, eligible prisoners are not presented before a Board of specialists, despite their repeated requests. Part IV: Prison Management 20. Challenges Faced by the Prison Administration Prison administrations from around the country complained about the severe shortage of staff, which seriously impacts their daily functioning, services provided to prisoners and the wellbeing of prison officers. xxvi