Fast food treats part of inmate incentives

NORTH Queensland youth offenders in detention are given fast food “treats” for good behaviour as part of a controversial incentive scheme.

The Townsville Bulletin understands youths in the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre in Townsville have been rewarded with fast foods such as Subway and McDonald’s for displaying positive behaviour.

Other food treats such as chips, burgers, chocolate and lollies were also provided to youth offenders during special occasions.

LNP opposition leader Deb Frecklington said allowing youths in detention to order in junk food and treats was a waste of Queenslanders’ money.

“There should be no Big Macs if you’re in the ‘ big house’,” she said. “You shouldn’t get room service if you break the law.”

Ms Frecklington said the policy showed how “out of touch” the State Government was with the community.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women confirmed the purchase of “treat” food was used as part of the detention centre’s rewards scheme.

“This food is used as an occasional reward for those young people who demonstrate positive behaviour,” she said. “Its use as part of the rewards and incentives scheme is part of a broader behaviour development strategy.”

The spokeswoman said staff also purchased fast food for youth offenders during leaves of absence from the centre, such as when travelling to family funerals.

“Staff would purchase convenient and quick takeaway food for young people during the long drives,” she said.

“Often there are limited options available in remote parts of Queensland other than takeaway outlets.

“The food purchased was also provided to the staff escorting the young people.”

The spokeswoman said other “treat” food purchases related to significant centre events such as when community elders visited the centre.

“External catering is sourced if the on- site kitchen is unable to cater for the event,” she said.