3.4 The approximately 30% reduction in the inmate population since 2003 is applauded, but the levels remain unacceptably high. Cluster departments should synchronise efforts to reduce this population: ways of reducing sentence lengths, greater use of plea bargaining, fewer unnecessary arrests leading to long periods spent in remand and Heads of Correctional Centres (HCCs) using their powers to authorise parole for those serving less than two years should be promoted. Where capacity is lacking, judicial, police and correctional officials should receive the necessary training to ensure that these interventions are utilised.