Released 15/07/2016
A safe, medically supervised injecting room has been identified by the Needle and Syringe Program Working Group as the preferred model for a Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) at the AMC, said Minister for Corrections, Shane Rattenbury.
“This decision has been taken by the Needle and Syringe Program Working Group (the Working Group) as they believe it is the most viable model for implementation in the unique environment of the AMC, following 12 months of consideration,” said Mr Rattenbury.
“The Working Group was established by a deed of agreement between the Government and the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) to develop a model in way that effectively engaged with staff and other stakeholders and includes JACS and Health directorate officials, CPSU officials and correctional officer delegates.
“The Working Group will further consult with staff and stakeholders over the coming weeks to form the detail of the model, which will then be presented to Corrective Services staff for a vote.
“Our primary focus in developing a Needle and Syringe Program is to reduce the spread of serious blood-borne viruses among detainees.
“Direct distribution by nurses or doctors through an injecting room model could allow for personal contact with prisoners and the opportunity for health professionals to provide qualified medical advice to detainees.
“In 2015, to break many years of stalemate on this issue, I negotiated the development of the Working Group, which comprises of ACT Corrective Services and Health officials, as well as CPSU officials and custodial officer delegates.
“The Working Group has met regularly since September and will now further consult with staff and external stakeholders. I would like to thank the members of the working for their genuine engagement and professionalism in their deliberations.”
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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