Time to put community safety before politics

The Green Party is calling on the Government to get serious about addressing crime and look at real solutions rather than implementing “getting tough” rhetoric that doesn’t work.

“Community safety needs to come first. The Government needs to implement polices that are effective in reducing crime rather than just chucking more people in jail,” said Metiria Turei, Green Party Law and Order spokesperson today.

Chief Justice Sian Elias speech pointed out that current approach to the justice system is not working and endlessly increasing prison numbers will not stop crime, said Metiria Turei.

“The Government should be listening to this expert advice if it is serious about keeping New Zealander’s safe.”

The Chief Justice’s speech highlighted a series of measures which can be taken to reduce crime. These included community education, early intervention, effective use of probation, support for the mentally ill in and out of prison, and reducing the prison population.

“We welcome the Chief Justice’s contribution to this debate. The Green Party is also committed to making New Zealand a safer place and in order for this to happen we need a justice system that works.

“We need a system that provides prevention, rehabilitation and restorative justice. There needs to be significant improvement in drug and alcohol services so that every offender who needs help with addiction gets it.

“There needs to be investment in restorative justice to provide for victims of crime and innovative methods of dealing with Maori offending as has been suggested by Pita Sharples.

“The underlying socio-economic issues that cause crime such as poverty also need to be addressed by investment in education, health and social services.

“The Government needs to stop playing populist politics with crime and keep the community safe by addressing the drivers of crime,” said Metiria Turei.