Deputy Prison Governor to temporarily step up

Friday 21 August 2020

The Deputy Prison Governor will temporarily be stepping into La Moye’s leading role following the sudden departure of Nick Cameron.

Mr Cameron announced his resignation last week.

It came after emails obtained by Express revealed a falling out with the Justice and Home Affairs Department over an alleged “lack of support” for La Moye staff and inmates during the pandemic.

The Government have today confirmed their plans for the interim management of the prison.

Pictured: Nick Cameron, whose resignation was confirmed last week.

Mr Cameron’s Deputy, Nick Watkins, will act in the role of Prison Governor for up to six months, starting on 1 September.

The recruitment for a new, permanent Prison Governor will begin shortly, officials said.

These interim arrangements have been agreed with the Jersey Appointments Commission.

Home Affairs Minister Constable Len Norman commented: “I would like to thank the Deputy Governor for stepping into the role of governor while we prepare for an open recruitment process. 

“Nick Watkins has been with the prison service for 32 years and will continue the work that has already been done to prioritise the welfare of prisoners and to focus on changing behaviour, rehabilitation into the community and reducing the risks of reoffending.” 

Mr Watkins said: “After joining the States of Jersey Prison Service in 1988, I trained at HMP Winchester and at the Prison Service College in Wakefield. I have since continued my development and was appointed Deputy Governor in 2014.  

“During this time, I have had the privilege of working with many talented people, past and present, all of whom I have learned from. I look forward to serving the Island as acting Governor.”