Ombudsman seeks prison privacy improvement

CHRISTCHURCH: Although there have been improvements at Christchurch Women’s Prison, the Chief Ombudsman says the lack of privacy in some areas still needs addressing.

Peter Boshier released his report yesterday into a followup inspection of Christchurch Women’s Prison, noting that five of seven original recommendations have been fully or partially achieved.

Inspectors made a full, unannounced inspection of Christchurch Women’s Prison in December 2014 and their recommendations concerned the conditions and treatment of prisoners there.

A followup inspection in November, also unannounced, found cells had been brought up to standard, record keeping and laundry processes had improved, and privacy screens had been installed in the wings.

‘‘Inspectors found Christchurch Women’s Prison was clean and tidy, with a relaxed atmosphere and generally good relationships among staff and prisoners,’’ Mr Boshier said.

‘‘There was a range of constructive activities available for lowsecurity prisoners, and a job expo about to be held.’’

However, there were still issues to be confronted, he said.

‘‘We still have strong concerns about the use of cameras in the cell toilet areas, and the lack of privacy screens in those areas.

‘‘I acknowledge this is an issue across the prison system, and that Corrections is working to find possible solutions.’’

Some lowsecurity prisoners were also worried about being moved to Arohata Upper Prison, in Trentham, due to crowding pressures, as it was separating them from their families. — NZN