Prison bosses misled parliament

Issue 

SYDNEY — Acting NSW prisons commissioner Ian McLean misled parliament when he claimed that the women prisoners of the Emu Plains minimum security prison initiated reductions to their visiting hours, Brett Collins of Justice Action claimed on September 1.

McLean made his claim to an estimates committee hearing on August 28. On August 3, Justice Action issued a media release stating that the "new general manager of Emu Plains Correctional Centre has withdrawn 'all day' weekend family and friends visits for the women in prison at Emu Plains. Children will now see their mothers for a maximum of two hours."

Justice Action has proposed to NSW justice minister Tony Kelly that a community panel be appointed to clarify the position of the women at Emu Plains to ensure that parliament is properly informed, but as of September 1 had received no reply.

Nat Gray


If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.