NCJ Number
231580
Date Published
2009
Length
54 pages
Annotation
This publication is a periodic review of the Correctional Services Department (CSD) of Hong Kong.
Abstract
This annual report of the CSD elaborates on the years' significant developments in building a safe and more inclusive society for all in Hong Kong. As an example, October 2009, the Voting by Imprisoned Persons Ordinance came into effect establishing a clear legal framework for prisoners to register as electors, becoming "electors in custody," and then vote in public election. The ordinance is the result of a High Court ruling in December 2008 that restrictions on the right of prisoners to vote were unconstitutional. Following a public consultation exercise, the voting by Imprisoned Persons Bill was introduced by the Legislative Council in May 2009. In consultation with concerned Bureau and Departments, CSD has already put into place the necessary arrangements in the institutions to implement the new law. Positive actions were also taken in response to several other newly enacted ordinances which have implications on prison management, such as the Race Discrimination Ordinance, designed to ensure that prisoners receive no disparity in treatment and no discrimination on grounds of race and nationality, as well as the new smoking-control measures. Overcrowding continues to be problematic, but is being addressed to alleviate overcrowding in specific institutions, upgrade ageing facilities, and provide better facilities for inmates' rehabilitation. Offender rehabilitation is promoted using vocational training and gainful industrial work. And finally, providing care and support to staff is a noted commitment. Chapters specifically address operations and institutional management, rehabilitation, industries and vocational training, human resource management, quality assurance, administration and planning, and green management.