6. SANDRA GOUDIE (National—Coromandel) Link to this
to the Minister of Corrections
What reports has she received on initiatives to improve the safety of prison staff?
Hon JUDITH COLLINS (Minister of Corrections) Link to this
The safety of Department of Corrections officers is one of our top priorities, and I am very pleased to report that the department has delivered an intensive 3-day training course in advanced tactical communication and de-escalation techniques to its entire front-line staff of 4,000. This was delivered via an impressive 12,500 training days across the country. The training allows officers to effectively talk down an escalating or potentially dangerous situation. I expect that this will result in fewer officers being hurt in the line of duty. I have been told that the training has already led to many tense situations being resolved without the prisoner involved resorting to violence.
Hon JUDITH COLLINS Link to this
Prison staff have already been provided with new protective equipment for use in dangerous situations. This includes stab-proof vests, spit hoods, and batons. The department is now starting a 12-month trial of pepper spray, with a view to adding this tool to the range of safety equipment available to front-line staff. I am also delighted that our Government is introducing legislation to make offending against a Department of Corrections officer or a police officer an aggravating factor in sentencing.