Press Statements POPCRU welcomes the remission of sentences

 

POPCRU welcomes the remission of sentences

For immediate release 1st June 2005

POPCRU has learned that the Department of Correctional Services has decided to offer remissions to some of the inmates who are serving their sentences. Despite arriving at this decision after protest actions, some of which came at a very high price and bitter experiences, we are glad that finally this move has been made.

Despite all the condemnation we received over our outcry on overcrowding, we are glad that the Department has finally seen a need to deal with this matter.

We want to make an appeal to the department to make sure that this decision is not effected in such a manner that would compromise the safety of the broader society, particularly the of law abiding citizens. To ensure that this does not happen, it would be prudent for the DCS to employ more personnel to monitor the released inmates and supervise their rehabilitation program so that their re-integration into the society yields the intended results.

We also want to make an appeal to our communities to create a caring environment so that those who are released are able to contribute positively in the society. We want to see them utilising their skills, which they have learned to earn themselves a decent leaving. Employers must also open their doors and not use these members' prison records as an excuse to exclude them from participating in the mainstream economy.

Issued by POPCRU: Tel (011) 403 0406
Fax (011) 403 9377/8

National Spokesperson Pat Ntsobi
072 671 4258: Email patn@popcru.org.za