I find this an apathetic remark because if those criminals had gained assistance from helpers outside of the prison, then they may have sped away on bikes or cars and disappeared.

Clearly the prison fence is a weak link and the minister should acknowledge this.
Coils of razor wire at the bottom, middle and top of security fencing is standard practise in most countries. It is a simple solution and is not dependent on hiring more permanent staff which is a perpetual drain on funds.