Correctional Services Minister Dr Pieter Groenewald says the reform of the parole system, as well as combating corruption in the department, are some of the challenges he plans to deal with. Groenewald spoke to the SABC about his first 100 days in office.
He says he has plans to make positive changes within the correctional system, during his tenure as minister.
Groenewald is concerned about the issue of overcrowding at the 243 correctional facilities around the country.
He, however, says if the issue of remand detainees can be dealt with, as well as parole reform, this will make a difference. He will be meeting with the Justice Ministry to discuss these matters.
Groenewald also says since his appointment on the 3rd of July this year, there has been more reports and investigations into correctional services officials who have been found to be involved in crime within the system.
But he says the issue of rehabilitation is the focus point of the department.
“Rehabilitation is that when we have our people and they are going back, they must be absorbed within the community. It’s a real problem when it comes to reoffending in South Africa, we don’t have a specific figure. I have asked about that. I said I want proper research when it comes to that, at the moment the figures show that the majority of crimes that is recommitted by parolees is violent crimes. So, we have to look into that,”
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