Community Justice Coalition
Media Release Thursday, March 10, 2011
Liberals/Nationals proposal on prisoner recidivism
“Dealing with the causes of crime, as proposed by the NSW Liberals and Nationals, through drug rehabilitation and education programs such as putting computers in prison cells is a welcome change. That will reduce the strain on our prison system and the taxpayer, since every prisoner who returns to prison diverts resources from health, education and infrastructure”, says CJC President, Davit Bitel.
“These proposals to reduce re-offending are in line with earlier commitments made at the CJC Justice Forum. Reducing recidivism will reduce the number of victims – not just statistics but the real damage caused by failed justice policies,” says CJC Vice President, Hon John Dowd, AO, QC.
“NSW has the worst recidivism rate of any Australian State, with more than 40 percent of prisoners returning to gaol within two years – a rate 5 percent above the national average. The CJC wants and expects urgent action on this issue in order to make our communities safer” said David Bitel.
According to NSW Shadow Attorney-General, Greg Smith; “the NSW Liberals & Nationals are determined to reduce crime and make our homes and neighbourhoods safer”, through a second Drug Court and $20 million of funding over four years for education and training programs in prisons. See Media statement below from the Liberal/National Coalition.
Community Justice Coalition
