CLP Will Build Bigger Alice Springs Prison

The Territory Opposition has announced a commitment to increase the capacity of the Alice Springs prison by 150 inmates.

"The Alice Springs prison is dangerously over crowded and an increased capacity is urgently needed to relieve the pressure,” says Jodeen Carney, Leader of the Opposition.

"Over crowded prisons place corrections officers at increased risk of assault and under great stress.

"This year the prison has consistently had more inmates than its 400 limit; often exceeding its limit by 20, 30 and even 40 prisoners.

"A capital works program at Alice Springs prison will bring considerable economic benefits to the town.

"The investment would be a welcome economic boost for local suppliers, builders and tradesmen, with spin-off benefits flowing into the wider local economy.

"The expansion will also need to be accompanied by a recruitment campaign for new prison officers. That means more long-term jobs for locals and increased spending power in the town.

"The Martin Government has been dithering about making this much needed investment for too long.

"The 2007-08 Territory Budget notes the Territory's prisons are at 100% of their 850 operational capacity and that contingency plans have been made to temporarily accommodate up to 950 prisoners (*).

"The number of prisoners in the Territory has been steadily rising under Labor.

"There is no doubt the additional capacity will be needed in Alice Springs and Darwin.

"Throwing together temporary measures to accommodate an increase in prison numbers is not good enough.

"Clare Martin needs to show some much needed leadership and invest in the future of Alice Springs.

2007-07-25