Northern Territory Prisons Overflowing

In the last 5 years the prison population has exploded from 670 in 2002 to 850 predicted for this year. In 2002 prison population represented 84% of capacity, in 2006 the prisons will be at 100% of their capacity. Now Government wants to release "low level” criminals back into our communities.

"Last night there was a public meeting in the Northern suburbs at which there were nearly 200 residents. Those people were angry with the gangs that have taken over the streets of their suburbs and the lack of social order that is being manifested under this Government,” Jodeen Carney said.

"Police have been complaining that the promised extra officers on the beat have not materialised so there is no capacity for the Police to enforce the law.

"Prisons are overflowing and the Government has decided to release "low level” prisoners rather than gaol them in spite of the fact that many have been sentenced to imprisonment.

"Labor's claims that they have crime under control are wearing thin. If crime is under control, why are our goals full?

"The Government is desperately pushing through legislation, such as the Dry Areas legislation in an effort to convince Territorians they're doing something.

"Sadly, there is nothing in budget projections to suggest that there is any money to fix these problems. Too much money is being soaked up by the Waterfront Development and the squeeze on Government core functions is beginning to show.

"While the Waterfront is a worthwhile development it should not be at the expense of the basic services that Government should deliver.”

2006-08-31