NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn passes away

UPDATE: NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn has sadly passed away in palliative care.

NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn has passed away. Picture: Che Chorley

UPDATE: POLITICIANS and unions have spoken of a kind and compassionate man as they recognised the service of former NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn.

Mr McNairn died on Tuesday after battling illness in palliative care in a Brisbane hospital.

Attorney-General Selena Uibo said the government’s “thoughts and prayers” were with Mr McNairn’s family.

“I want to acknowledge the significant contributions Mr McNairn made during his time as Commissioner here in the Territory,” she said.

“He was a passionate leader and committed to improving outcomes for all prisoners and offenders in order to make our communities safer for all Territorians.

“He never hesitated to acknowledge that his staff were his biggest asset and he appreciated and valued the contributions they made on a daily basis.”

United Workers Union NT secretary Erina Early said the union “enjoyed a professional relationship with the Commissioner”.

“In his short time Commissioner McNairn tried to make necessary changes but was hindered by government restraints,” she said.

“He will be missed.”

Environment Minister Eva Lawler also paid tribute to Mr McNairn, saying he was dedicated to his role in corrections.  “That is absolutely just heartbreaking news,” she said.

“I think Scott McNairn did an amazing job.

“It’s not my portfolio, but when he presented to cabinet, the times that I met with him, I found him to be a kind, compassionate man that had a very thorough understanding in that corrections area.”

Flags at NT correctional facilities  were flown at half-mast on Wednesday. 

UPDATE: NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn has sadly passed away in Brisbane.

He was receiving palliative care after his health had deteriorated.

It’s understood flags will be flown at half mast at NT Correctional facilities on Wednesday.

EARLIER: NT Corrections Commissioner Scott McNairn is receiving palliative care in a Brisbane hospital.

An email sent to all Corrections staff from acting Commissioner David Thompson on Monday night said Mr McNairn had been “absent from duty for some time due to personal health reasons”.

“Unfortunately in the last fortnight Commissioner McNairn’s health has deteriorated considerably and he is now in hospital at Brisbane, being cared for in the Palliative Care unit,” the email said.

“Commissioner McNairn’s family are at his side.

“I am sure you will join me in passing our thoughts on to Commissioner McNairn’s family at this difficult time who are aware I have shared this sad news with you all.”

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