Shadow Minister for Corrections Terry Stephens has welcomed support from Family First, The Greens and Independent MPs to establish an Upper House committee to investigate the Department for Correctional Services.

 

The committee has been appointed to inquire into the Department for Correctional Services and to report upon areas such as:

 

• whether sufficient resources exist for the efficient operation of SA’s prison system;
• claims of bullying and harassment within the department;
• claims that practices and procedures are ignored by management; and
• claims of drug use and sales within the prison system.

 

“For far too long MPs have received worrying feedback from correctional services officers working within the system,” Mr Stephens said.

 

“We’ve been advised about a culture of bullying, intimidation and harassment within the department.

 

“We’ve been told of dodgy drug testing procedures and flagrant disregard for general practices and procedures within our prisons. 

 

“Officers who briefed a group of Upper House MPs told us that if any questions are asked, the officer and their lives are made miserable by senior staff.   

 

“Members are also greatly concerned about how effectively prisoners are being rehabilitated in terms of the education made available to them,” Mr Stephens said.

 

“Investigating the department in an open and transparent way is what’s needed.

 

“The committee will shortly be calling for witnesses and submissions and looks forward to getting underway.”