STUDENTS SLAM PRISON REPORT

Date: 01 March 2001

The National Union of Students Women's Department (NSW Branch) today commented on the governments response to the report of the select committee into increased prison populations.

Thursday, 1st March 2001

State Governments' dismissal of prison report entrenches poverty for women

The National Union of Students Women's Department (NSW Branch) today commented on the governments response to the report of the select committee into increased prison populations.

"Of particular concern to NUS is the governments' response to the recommendation that there be wage parity between those in custody undertaking full time work and those engaged in full time study.

"The refusal to recognise that a lack of financial and other support for those engaged in full time studies, both in and out of custody, provides an absolute disincentive for people to choose to undertake studies, is socially irresponsible."

Currently prisoners engaged in full time work are paid approximately sixty dollars per week, while those engaged in full time studies are paid only forty dollars per week. This is reflective of the governments broader priorities as it seeks to make a "quick buck" from prisoners by exploiting their cheap labour, rather than seeking to facilitate them becoming active and healthy participants in society through seriously encouraging them to take up educational opportunities , said. Pru Wirth, NUS NSW State Women's Officer.

The select committee also called for a moratorium on the construction of any new prisons for women in NSW. The continuing incarceration of women where there are viable alternatives , together with the lack of financial and support services, exacerbates an inadequate criminal justice system which maintains the poverty of women. The provision of adequate educational facilities coupled with incentives to take up study would significantly reduce the number of women who re-offend upon release by increasing their confidence and social adeptness.

"To say that the installation of a work ethic and learning discipline is one of the most valuable things people can be taught in prison is callous. This governments lack of commitment to providing the social support networks and services necessary to prevent women offending in the first place is the real problem"

"We are angered by the governments cavalier and dismissive approach to what we believe is a very serious issue." Ms Wirth conluded.

For further information contact:
Pru Wirth on 0404 001 802
State Women's Officer
National Union of Students, NSW Branch

For further information

Contact:	Pru Wirth
Union:	National Union of Students
Phone:	9267 4462
Contact Mobile:	0404 001 802
Fax:	9267 4461
Email:	nsw_women's@hotmail.com
WWW:	htttp://www.unistudent.com.au

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