Risdon prison assault sparks concerns as workers tell of ongoing work-related mental health worries

An alleged serious prison assault which reportedly left an inmate in intensive care has prompted calls for an overhaul of Tasmania’s prison system.

Search for Risdon Prison escapee Graham John Enniss. Risdon Prison generic photos. Picture: Zak Simmonds

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AN alleged serious prison assault which reportedly left an inmate in intensive care has prompted calls for an overhaul of Tasmania’s prison system.

It is understood a young adult inmate at Risdon Prison last week was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, including internal bleeding, following a serious assault.

A concerned Tasmanian resident, close to the victim, told the Mercury “he will now need life long care after surgery determined a blood vessel to his spleen was ruptured”.

“The system has let this, and many other young people down,” the contact, who wished to remain anonymous, said.

“There is an urgent need for the Youth Justice Act to be amended to help these young people, who, for many reasons have drug and alcohol problems.

“This is only one terrible example of a broken system, and we all, as Tasmanians, need to step up and help our most vulnerable young people.”

Corrections Minister Elise Archer: Zak Simmonds

Corrections Minister Elise Archer said the alleged assault had been referred to Tasmania Police and said an internal review was being undertaken by the Tasmanian Prison Service.

“The safety of staff and inmates is our number one priority, especially for the Tasmania Prison Service, and any assaults are completely unacceptable,” she said.

“All incidents of assault are followed up through the prisoner disciplinary process or by referral to Tasmania Police where appropriate, as well as a workplace health and safety review.

She said ongoing care and support would be provided to the individual.

Prisoners Legal Service chair Greg Barns SC. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Prisoners Legal Service chair Greg Barns SC said the alleged assault was consistent with prisoner welfare concerns raised to him by an inmate’s parent.

Mr Barns has been critical of the institution, saying it was part of a “broken system”.

Last month a leaked draft report from the Custodial Inspector detailed systematic dysfunction within prison management.

A Risdon Prison employee, speaking to the Mercury on the condition of anonymity, said several colleagues had sought psychological support in recent months over workplace concerns.

Community and Public Sector Union secretary Tom Lynch said there was “a very high number of prison employees on workers compensation and many suffering post traumatic stress disorders”.

“I would argue the stress is being exacerbated in the way people are managed,” Mr Lynch said.

“There seems to often be a lack of understanding from management, particularly to people who need support. I saw someone who needed to access flexible hours, for child care responsibilities, and they were told ‘maybe get another job’.”

Ms Archer said 40 new correctional officer recruits joined the Tasmania Prison Service in April, while a further 40 recruits were expected to commence work by the end of the year.

“Correctional Officer Recruitment processes have been occurring at an increased rate, and additional recruitment activities will take place before the end of the year.

“This will mean that in excess of 200 new Correctional Officers will have been employed by our Government since May 2016,” she said.

A Risdon Prison employee said the state government often talked up prison officer recruitment, but said “you don’t hear about how many workers are leaving”.