For Immediate Release 1 May 2009

Expert Panel on Probation

The Expert Panel to oversee improvements into the management of offenders on community sentences and orders have completed their first series of meetings.

The panel was recommended by the State Services Commissioner after shortcomings were identified in the Auditor General’s report into the Department of Corrections’ management of parole.

Panel Chair Paula Rebstock said the group had spent the last week getting familiar with the workings of the Community Probation and Psychological Service (CPPS), visiting CPPS facilities and meeting staff and management around New Zealand.

“Our initial impression is that CPPS appears to be making improvements and is committed to making further improvements in its quality and service standards.

“CPPS is already starting from a solid basis and is well placed to make the further changes they have committed to. However, we do believe the Panel can provide some additional input and guidance to help CPPS deliver an improved service.

Ms Rebstock said the panel intended to focus on three key outcomes: Ensuring offenders comply with parole orders, reducing the rates of re-offending and minimising the risk of harm to the public from offenders on parole.

“It’s not possible to eliminate all risk, but the public can expect probation services to do their job properly and to take all reasonable steps to minimise each offenders risk to the public.”

“We are looking for CPPS to show they have clear means to monitor and improve their performance and we expect them to be able to demonstrate to the public that they are doing all they can to deliver the highest possible service.

Ms Rebstock said that it was important to note that the Panel’s review of CPPS was only at the initial stages.

“While we have already identified some areas for change, it will not be until we complete a more lengthy and rigorous examination of CPPS and its processes that any significant measures could be recommended.

Ms Rebstock said the Panel was pleased with the level of co-operation received from CPPS staff.

“I’ve met many committed staff at all levels of CPPS, who clearly want to do a good job and our role is helping them transfer this commitment into reality.”

The Expert Panel consists of Panel Chair Paula Rebstock, Andrew Bridges HM Chief Inspector of Probation for England and Wales, Peter Hughes Chief Executive of the Ministry of Social Development and two senior CPPS staff.

ENDS

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