Media Statement For immediate release Monday, 3 November, 2003

Alexander delighted 'goon squad' probe on way

In welcoming news today that an inquiry will be held into the Paparua Prison 'goon squad', United Future's Marc Alexander called for the terms to be as wide as possible.

"This is very good news, and it needed to happen," he said. "This issue is too big to be brushed under the carpet. It's not going to go away."

Mr Alexander, United Future's law and order spokesman, also praised the role of Corrections Minister Paul Swain, with whom he has worked constructively in advocating the inquiry for a considerable period of time.

"The Minister has been straight up on this issue, and I am sure we can continue to progress this to its proper conclusion.

"The key now is that the terms of inquiry must be broad enough to be an open, frank and independent probe into all aspects of a very murky state of affairs.

"The Corrections Department must be held accountable to the public if there is to be any confidence in the way it discharges its responsibilities.

"The public must have confidence that all the relevant matters are exposed. Justice must not only be seen to be done, but to be done." Mr Alexander said.

Ends.

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