Prison officers condemn private prison

Issue 

Prison officers condemn private prison

By Sarah Harris

PERTH — The WA Coalition government wants a private company, Correction Corporation of Australia, to operate a proposed 750-bed medium security jail at Wooroloo, 50 kilometres east of Perth.

The secretary of the WA Prison Officers Union, Ric Stingemore, told Green Left Weekly the union opposes the privatisation of prisons. He questioned the ethics of making profits out of imprisonment, and pointed out that the WA government wants to privatise prison running costs because it is struggling to manage overcrowded and under-resourced prisons.

The union says that to make money from a prison, fewer staff must be employed, interaction between staff and prisoners must be reduced, and the rehabilitation of prisoners must be neglected.

The West Australian newspaper has reported that the ALP, Greens and Democrats will block the legislation. Churches and the WA Prisoners' Action group also oppose the privatisation.

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.