United Voice News
Prison staff anxious for their safety
Concern over elimination of casual workers.
Employees at Borallon Correctional Centre in Queensland are concerned about Serco’s decision to eliminate casual workers, arguing it will put both staff and prisoners at risk.
The centre houses on average 390 high-security prisoners and 95 low-security prisoners. Although staffing is adequate during the day shifts, Serco’s decision to eliminate casuals has resulted in no contingency plan for replacing staff who are sick or on annual leave.
‘This is a workplace health and safety issue that needs to be taken seriously,’ said Custodial Officer Debbie Richards, who has worked at the centre for nearly 10 years. ‘We feel as if our concerns for safety are being overlooked by management.’
Members are currently in discussions with management in regards to maintenance of staffing levels across all shifts.
