14 May 2015

Ray Smith, Department of Corrections Chief Executive

Final Decision to Restructure Prisons

In April I announced a proposal to reshape some parts of our prisons and regional offices to lift productivity and performance.

This would take place over the next year and involve closing some old and now unfit for purpose units in three prisons as well as changing our reporting lines to strengthen the accountability of those who run our prisons and work in our regional offices.

I have been able to visit the three affected prisons where units face closure, Waikeria, Tongariro/ Rangipo and Rimutaka and most of the regional offices to listen to feedback from staff.

As a result of this consultative effort we have concluded that 68 fewer positions will be disestablished.

The overall number of positions lost will now be 194.

My team will inform staff today and while I’m pleased that we’ll be able to reach our objective with fewer positions disestablished, I’m aware that for some this will still not be good news.

For these people I’m aware of the stress they may now face, but I’m committed to providing strong support to enable affected staff to move into other positions in Corrections around the country.

The Department of Corrections plays a key role in driving 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.

With new capacity coming on stream from Auckland South Corrections Facility, the department will have a net increase of 433 prisoner beds once these changes have been completed.

The new prison structure, where custodial, education, employment, reintegration, health and rehabilitation services come under the direction of a Prison Director, will allow staff and resources to be focused on getting prisoners up skilled so that on release they can find employment and be less likely to re-offend.

ENDS

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