Proposal to Restructure Prisons

Department of Corrections Chief Executive Ray Smith has today proposed that over the next year parts of three prisons will close.

“While overall the number of beds for prisoners will increase by 433 this year, they’ll be modern, safe and focused on rehabilitation, unlike the units in Waikeria, Tongariro/Rangipo and Rimutaka Prisons that are proposed for closure.

Over the next year we expect around 260 Corrections staff will be affected and Corrections will help them move to other prisons if they wish.

The Department of Corrections plays a key role in driving for a 25% reduction in re-offending by 2017.

To achieve this, we need to change the way we operate and make all prisons places of industry, learning and rehabilitation.

The opening of the new 960-bed Auckland South Corrections Facility (ASCF) next month will not only provide these facilities, it will create the additional capacity we need to be able to close some of our oldest units that are no longer fit for purpose.

There are over a thousand prisoners from Auckland, currently housed in other prisons around the country, and many of these will be moved back closer to their families, aiding their rehabilitation.

The proposal also outlines a new prison structure where all custodial, education, employment, reintegration, health and rehabilitation services are under the direction of a Prison Director.

Prison Directors would have responsibility over the staff and resources they need to achieve working prisons and create lasting change in the lives of offenders.

Supporting our staff through these changes will be our main priority.

Staff have been given the opportunity to comment on the proposal and a final decision will not be made until May 2015.

ENDS

© Scoop Media