June 13, 2018
Smaller scale for prison rehabilitation
Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis says building a mega prison would be a signal the Government has given up on reforming a failed system.
Mr Davis yesterday announced Waikeria Prison would be rebuilt as a new 500-bed high security unit, rather than the mega-prison planned by National.
There will also be a 100-bed facility for inmates with mental health problems.
He said American-style mega-prisons breed crime, while smaller prisons were more effective for rehabilitation.
The Government has approved the building of almost 1000 new beds at five prisons around the country to deal with current high inmate numbers.
It is also looking at reforms to reduce inmate numbers, including taking away some of the barriers that prevent the release of remand prisoners eligible for bail.
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