Media Release
29 January 2004

Prisoners Are Whingers Says Mark

New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark is outraged at the cheek displayed by Paparua Prison inmates who have executed a publicity stunt by complaining about the quality of food served in the prison.

“These people are in prison because they have broken the law and they cannot expect to have the same privileges as law abiding citizens and that includes a choice in what they eat, said Mr Mark.

“Ordinary New Zealanders struggle every day to provide three square meals for themselves and their families, There are those who cannot manage even this, yet we have inmates who think it is their right to demand gourmet meals.

“Prisoners should be grateful they are in a New Zealand jail under the touchy feely Labour Government instead of in a foreign jail where hard labour is often the norm. Perhaps inmates would not be so quick to moan if a programme of hard labour for food was implemented in New Zealand.

“The audacity of these inmates astounds me, by breaking the law they have given up their right to freedom of choice and it is time the Department of Corrections made this clear. If they wish to continue to complain about their food, then make them pay for their own,” said Mr Mark

ENDS