Yatala Labour Prison has witnessed a troubling spike in violence, with three separate assaults occurring over the past week. The most recent incident took place on Sunday when a prisoner was assaulted by another inmate, resulting in hospitalization at the Royal Adelaide Hospital for medical assessment. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed that all three assaults, which occurred on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, necessitated hospital treatment for the victims.
In response to these incidents, a comprehensive search was conducted within the prison. The DCS spokesperson stated that the matter had been reported to the South Australian Police for further investigation. Meanwhile, questions linger regarding the potential connection between these assaults and broader systemic issues within the prison system.
Concerns Over Safety and Staffing
The Public Service Association (PSA) has raised concerns regarding staffing and resources within the prison system, suggesting that cost-cutting measures implemented since 2019 may have contributed to the increase in violence. Austin White, the PSA's manager of Policy and Strategy, emphasized the impact of these cuts:
"a direct result of the cuts that were implemented from 2019 onwards" – Austin White
The PSA claims that the reduction in regular searches and staffing levels has left both staff and inmates vulnerable to escalating violence. White expressed concern for safety within the prison:
"very concerned about their own safety, but they're also very concerned about the safety of prisoners" – Austin White
The association insists reinstating critical posts is essential to curbing the rising number of assaults and contraband within the facility.
Government Response
Minister for Correctional Services Emily Bourke has addressed the situation, underscoring a commitment to maintaining safety within prisons. She stated:
"a record number of searches and seizures were carried out last financial year, helping to keep more prohibited items out of the system and improving safety for prisoners and staff" – Emily Bourke
Bourke highlighted recent efforts to bolster the workforce, noting that last month saw the largest graduation of correctional officers in the state's history. This measure aims to reinforce security and support for both staff and inmates:
"We’ve also seen the biggest graduation of correctional officers in the state’s history last month, highlighting our commitment to growing and supporting the Corrections workforce” – Emily Bourke
Ongoing Discussions and Future Plans
The DCS has acknowledged concerns raised by the PSA and emphasized its commitment to engaging with workplace representatives. A spokesperson from DCS affirmed their intent to meet with union representatives:
"The department takes its responsibility to engage with workplace representatives and the PSA very seriously and will meet with the Union as a priority to understand further the concerns raised" – DCS spokesperson
Despite assertions from DCS that recent assaults do not reflect under-resourcing, tensions remain high as stakeholders seek solutions to these pressing issues. Both the government and union representatives underscore the need for ongoing dialogue to ensure a safer environment for all within Yatala Labour Prison.
