Chairperson, the ACDP clearly understands that as there is an increased focus on fighting crime, with additional resources for police, detectives, prosecutors and courts, Correctional Services will be on the receiving end of this process as more offenders are arrested and prosecuted. Clearly, therefore, additional staff and resources must be given.
We have seen the result of underresourcing particularly when it comes to overcrowding. Prisons are 42% overcrowded. Overcrowding is the root cause of health problems and the spread of diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV and Aids, besides contributing to gangster-related activities.
We, as the ACDP, are also very concerned about the high level of reoffending, estimated to be 94%. The department is clearly then not succeeding in its offender-rehabilitation programme. The ACDP was one of the first to recommend that prisoners be put to work to assist with rehabilitation by learning skills. This issue requires further attention.
Lastly, the ACDP supports a full review of the medical parole policy in view of the Schabir Shaik controversy. However, the ACDP will support this Budget Vote. Thank you.