The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety:
Mr. Speaker, I am very fortunate to work with amazing people in the Department of Justice and Public Safety. Today I would like to recognize the important work of a key group within our justice system – our correctional staff.
May 6 to 12 was recognized as Corrections Week. The theme of the week is ‘Serving with Excellence,’ and it is meant to acknowledge the contribution of correctional staff in promoting rehabilitation and making communities safe.
Mr. Speaker, last year I had the privilege of getting just a glimpse of what the job of a correctional officer entails as I job shadowed at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary. This group has an incredibly difficult job and they do it with tremendous integrity. They play a crucial role in the justice system and in their communities.
In March, I spoke to the newest group of graduates who were starting their careers in corrections, seven women and six men. I emphasized the need for them to have empathy and compassion as they do their jobs and work with those in our correctional facilities.
Mr. Speaker, I can honestly say, we should all be very proud of the quality of people we have working in our correctional facilities. They show their commitment not only on the job, but in the many contributions they make to their communities through various fundraising and community initiatives.
Mr. Speaker, I ask all Honourable members to join me in thanking our correctional staff for their service and contribution to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.