Mother of murdered teenager hits out over Skype plan for prisoners
KIRSTY STEWART
how helping prisoners to engage with their families could reduce re-offending.
But Ms Munro has called the idea a “disgrace”.
Paige was murdered by John Leathem, 32, in March 2016 when he stabbed her more than 60 times at his deli in
Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire.
He was sentenced to serve a minimum of 27 years in prison although it was later reduced by four years on appeal.
Sharing a link to an article discussing the Farmer Review on the Justice for Paige Facebook group, Ms Munro said: “The prisons just get easier and easier. Something needs be done. I think it’s a disgrace.
“We don’t get to Skype our lost loved ones that these criminals take away from us.
“Punishment has to mean punishment for any criminal to take it serious.
“The government is getting laughed at left right and centre by these criminals. Victims are losing trust daily in them.”
She later posted another message hitting out at the Scottish prison service after hearing that a “Family Fun Day” had been held on at least one occasion for inmates.
She said: “Following on from my last post about Skype being allowed in prisons, I’m absolutely disgusted to learn that Greenock Prison also put on a Family Fun Day.
“I understand that there are smaller crimes and maybe for rehabilitation introduce wee days like that, but a fun day for murderers? Paedophiles? It should not happen.
“This must be the same fun day I took Paige to .... oh wait I’m unable take her to any fundays any more.
“Surely you take someone from their family you lose any right to spend time with your own.
“Let’s face it if their not getting out, it’s nothing to do with rehabilitation. The prison system gets worse.”
Lord Farmer’s report stated: “This would likely include most foreign nationals but also, for example, it might also be too disruptive for new babies, young children or teenagers studying for important exams to come into prison to visit at frequent intervals, but virtual visits would keep up the contact.”