Prison job losses reduced

15 May 2015

News job losses at Tongariro/Rangipo Prison will be dramatically less than first predicted has been welcomed by Taupo District Mayor David Trewavas.

Last month, the Department of Corrections proposed the closure of prison units at Tongariro/Rangipo with up to 67 job losses. It was part of a proposal also affecting Waikeria and Rimutaka prisons due to prisoners being relocated a new private prison in Auckland.

Following that announcement, Mr Trewavas had lengthy discussions with the Department of Corrections and yesterday it was announced the revised number of job losses would amount to 30. It is understood the actual affect would be minimised due to existing vacancies and impending staff retirement.

Mr Trewavas said he was pleased his talks with the Department of Corrections had resulted in a positive outcome for Tongariro/Rangipo Prison and the Turangi/Tongariro community.

"While no job losses would definitely be the preferred option, the department has listened and taken on board our concerns and made efforts to minimise the impact locally," he said.

While the Rangipo site would close down because it was no longer fit for purpose, Tongariro Prison would have $30 million invested in it.

It's great that we will continue to have a large-scale employer in the Turangi area supporting that part of our district, Mr Trewavas said.

As a council we have made a big investment to revitalise Turangi, and the town has a lot going for it, he said. The more we can do to retain and attract employment opportunities the better. I thank the Department of Corrections for hearing the community and investing in our future.

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Taupo District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz