Hon Judith Collins
Minister of Corrections

12 March 2009 Media Release

Minister presents inaugural Corrections Officer Excellence Awards

Two graduates of the Department of Corrections’ initial training course were today presented the inaugural Minister’s Excellence Awards by Corrections Minister Judith Collins.

Sean Francis and Miller Slade received the awards at the Correction Officer graduation ceremony at Upper Hutt’s Rimutaka Prison.

Ms Collins established the award to recognise newly graduated Corrections Officers who have demonstrated outstanding achievement.

“I would like to congratulate Sean and Miller, who have shown the qualities of leadership, professionalism and all-round excellence during their training,” Ms Collins said.

“Corrections Officers perform one of the most important roles in our society. They are charged with keeping the public safe from some of our most dangerous and difficult people.

“All New Zealanders count on them to carry out their duties with integrity, initiative, courage, common sense and professionalism.

“The work of Corrections Officers in making our communities safer is often under-recognised. My wish is that this award acknowledges not just the hard work of those receiving it, but the contribution of all Corrections Officers.”

Forty-one new officers – 12 women and 29 men – graduated today.

Trainee Corrections officers undertake a one-week orientation at a prison before attending a six-week initial training course. The course focuses on the role and responsibilities of a Corrections Officer and the practical requirements of the role.

On graduation, Corrections Officers return to their home locations before undertaking a one-week induction at a prison. Following that, they are assigned to full operational duties.

Ms Collins is believed to be the first Corrections Minister to ever attend a Corrections Officer graduation.

"These graduates will be doing a very important job. I want to show them all the support I can," Ms Collins said.

ENDS

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