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The Hon. CHARLIE LYNN: My question is directed to the Minister for Justice. Has he investigated why security is so lax at Berrima gaol, which I understand is known as Club Southern Highlands following the escape yesterday of two convicted drug criminals—who allegedly had to remove only a couple bricks from a wall to make good their escape—and last month's incident when a prisoner was released for court sentencing without the required documentation needed to return him to gaol? Is it true that one of the escaped felons was given a privileged position in the drug and alcohol program at Berrima, which I understand is a much sought-after location, only 14 days after being sentenced?
The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: On 18 October two minimum security inmates escaped from the Berrima Correctional Centre. Bowral police were immediately notified and attended at the centre. As always occurs, the department is conducting an investigation into the process of classifying inmates and also into the process of selecting inmates for the workshop. There will be a correctional centre security review undertaken by the department's security and investigation unit, as is always the case in matters of this nature. Anyone who suggests that life in any of the correctional facilities is a club is welcome to experience the pleasures.
The Hon. Michael Egan: Why not put the Hon. Charlie Lynn in for 12 months?
The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: Yes. That opportunity has been offered to a few members of the Opposition, but so far not one has rushed to accept the offer. I am advised that neither of the inmates concerned was considered dangerous.