4. SANDRA GOUDIE (National—Coromandel) Link to this
to the Minister of Corrections
What steps have been taken to ensure that the corrections system has better access to world-class innovation and expertise?
Hon JUDITH COLLINS (Minister of Corrections) Link to this
This Government is committed to a world-class corrections system in New Zealand. To achieve that, we must have access to world-class innovation and expertise. Today I was delighted to announce that global services management company Serco has been selected to manage the Mt Eden Prison and Auckland Central Remand Prison. Serco has a strong track record in managing prisons, operating six adult prisons and two youth offender centres in the United Kingdom and Australia. I am confident that this new partnership will lead the way in delivering innovation and excellence across the entire corrections system.
Hon JUDITH COLLINS Link to this
One of the major advantages of private management is the ability to build performance incentives and penalties into the contract. It also allows the Government to target problem areas more effectively. The contract now being finalised with Serco will contain rigorous oversight and significant financial incentives to ensure that the company consistently delivers its services to a high standard. We also expect the partnership will lead to innovation and efficiencies that can be extended to prisons throughout the New Zealand corrections system.