Shadow Minister for Corrections Ella Haddad today said correctional officers deserve far better than they are getting from the Hodgman Government.
Correctional officers have today again been forced to walk off the job in a desperate plea for respect from the Government.
"Almost a year after the pay and conditions negotiations began, the Government has yet to put a fair and decent offer to hard-working correctional officers," Ms Haddad said.
"We know from answers in Budget Estimates, that Risdon Prison faces lockdowns every single day, caused by staff shortages.
"These staff shortages put both correctional officers and inmates at serious risk".
"We have heard terrible stories, including correctional officers being forced to finish a shift covered in a prisoner's blood and bodily fluids without being allowed a shower, and horrific inmate on inmate assaults that could have been intervened on earlier if staff shortages weren't an issue.
"The Attorney-General has shown little regard for workers' mental health and well-being, so it's little wonder they won't offer a fair wage deal.
"The Government could resolve this today, by sitting down with unions and workers and negotiating in good faith. We owe these dedicated Tasmanians much better."
Ella Haddad MP
Shadow Minister for Corrections
