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Archived Press Releases 2005 30th June 2005

Lock them up versus Let them Loose?

(30th June 2005)

Hard on the heels of startling revelations about prisoners being given Kentucky Fried Chicken as a reward to allow guards to search their cells for drugs and other illegal goods, the Sensible Sentencing Trust is about to promote a whole new dimension to the prison debate.

The debate being organized in Christchurch this Sunday is intended to be provocative, and invites the public to hear a number of well known personalities argue the toss and debate the pros and cons of what the Sensible Sentencing Trust see as a "revolving door" prison policy that has made a mockery of attempts to rehabilitate inmates.

Spokesman for the Trust said that with close to 90 percent of inmates re-offending within 5 years it is time for the public to get involved in the debate. "Politicians have blatantly ignored what the public have been saying for years, we see this as an opportunity for Christchurch people to express their views on a topic that is costing the tax payer millions of dollars every year".

Mr McVicar said the debate was an excellent opportunity for people to hear a star studded line up of well respected Christchurch personalities such as retired All Black Bill Bush arguing that some criminals were so bad they should never be let out. Comedian / Editor Jon Gadsby will add some entertainment to the debate, particularly when he is up against top criminal defence lawyer Pip Hall.

Other well known names arguing the point will be Radio and TV hosts Mike Yardley and Jo Giles, with the event being facilitated by a woman well known for being outspoken and calling it the way she sees it. Ali Jones has proved she is not afraid to tackle the hard issues, her fearless approach to this topic will add that pinch of spice to ensure everyone will be well entertained and informed.

Mr McVicar said the last member of the debating team would be a Surprise Guest, "all we are saying is this person has already made a reputation as being totally fearless when advocating for Victims of crime".

Local politicians will be invited to explain (in 5 minutes) why the "Revolving Door" Criminal Justice policy allows so many dangerous criminals to apply for parole at one third of their Judge given sentence.

To add a little more originality and spirit to the afternoon the public will decide the winner by a "cash" donation bucket, with all proceeds being donated to the Sensible Sentencing Trust.

The event will begin at 2:00 PM sharp this Sunday at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Cashell Street Christchurch.

For further information or comment please contact:
Leah Matena: 027 3066 458 or Garth McVicar: 027 2487 919

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.