Outrage at parole loophole

The National Party’s outraged and appalled by suggestions as many as 234 inmates could be released from prison this Christmas under a loophole in the parole laws.

“When New Zealanders voted enmasse for tougher sentences and backed victims' rights I’m sure they had no idea they were supporting this kind of revolving door policy,” says the National Party’s Corrections spokesman Tony Ryall.

He’s responding to concerns raised after the release of a twice-convicted Invercargill drink driver who served less than one day of a one-month sentence.

“The National Party tried to close this loophole when the laws were being drafted, we weren’t listened to.

“Now Labour’s Mark Peck says he wants to close the loophole, but that’s a bit like shutting the window after the burglar’s already stolen your telly.

“I believe this Government should now be forced to explain to the victims of those 234 prisoners why it’s failed to beat burglary, youth offending and violent crime and why the re-offending rate’s beginning to soar.

“If Justice Minister Phil Goff thinks what we’re seeing is justice, then he’s the real Christmas turkey and needs a basting for letting it happen,” Mr Ryall says.

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