Hon Bill English

Deputy Prime Minister

4 August 2016
Media Statement

Deputy PM presents certificates to prisoners

Deputy Prime Minister Bill English today presented certificates of achievement to eight graduates of the Howard League’s Literacy Programme at Rimutaka Prison.

“Being able to read increases the chances of inmates turning their lives around when they leave prison and look for work,” Mr English says.

About 70 per cent of prison inmates have low levels of reading and writing.

The Howard League programme pairs prisoners with volunteers for one-on-one tuition. It complements Corrections Department literacy and numeracy programmes designed to support prisoners to progress to higher level education and employment.

“Achievement in this programme boosts prisoner confidence and is a step towards a better life after prison and reduced re-offending rates,” Mr English says.

“Since the programme started in Rimutaka Prison in 2013, 44 prisoners have graduated, including the eight who received their certificates today. Another 24 students are currently studying in the programme.”

Also in attendance at today’s graduation ceremony were Howard League President Tony Gibbs, CEO Mike Williams, Patron Dame Catherine Tizard and Corrections Chief Executive Ray Smith.

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