Prison ‘ safety breach’ claims

QUEENSLAND Corrective Services has denied claims from Townsville Prison officers that management ignored their concerns about security after a staff member drove on the facility’s perimeter.

Officers allege the Townsville Prison’s human resources manager drove her vehicle on the prison’s perimeter without authorisation on September 1.

But Corrective Services say the manager had authority to enter the prison.

Sources told the Bulletin officers who tried to report the incident were told to “leave it alone”.

The sources also said the HR manager involved in the incident had previously been critical of others for allegedly failing to report incidents.

A Queensland Corrective Services spokeswoman confirmed the female HR manager had driven on to the perimeter but said there were “no identified security risks” when her vehicle entered the prison.

“The general manager has responsibility for safety and security of the centre, and has the discretion to approve movements in and around prison grounds for operational reasons,” she said.

“We can confirm that the HR manager was undertaking an urgent task at the direct request of the general manager and she had his authorisation to attend the prison.”

The spokeswoman said the circumstances of the incident were explained to the officers when they raised concerns.

“The known circumstances of this matter do not necessitate any further investigation or any resultant action.”

But LNP North Queensland spokesman and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the “concerning” incident warranted a full review.

“There are very strict procedures in all correctional centres,” he said.

“From the general manager down, everyone has to comply.

“You would expect now for there to be a review of the circumstances surrounding ( the staff member’s) arrival at the correctional centre.”

Mr Last said a full investigation to determine the circumstances of the vehicle’s entrance on to the facility was necessary.

“At the end of the day, the security of our correctional centres is of paramount importance.

Together Union organiser Norm Jacobson said all procedures should be followed “regardless who’s responsible”.