46450 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections

46450 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections: What steps, if any, has the Minister taken to support the Department of Corrections in relation to the estimated shortfall of over 700 beds by June 2028?

Hon Mark Mitchell: Corrections officials are aware of the current and long term forecast prison capacity pressures. I look forward to advancing the Waikeria Prison expansion announced earlier this year. I have asked Corrections officials to inform me of any other initiatives which may be required to ensure that Corrections is well placed to meet its obligations as part of the Justice Sector. For further information I refer the member to my response to WPQ 46407 (2024), which highlights some of the programmes of work planned or underway to respond to projected increases to the prison population. This is also my response to WPQ 46558 (2024).