Parklea officers say their jobs are at risk from moves to privatise the prison’s management and operation.

Wellington staff rallied outside the Correctional Centre from 11.30am to let the community know at large what was happening at Parklea.

Chairperson of the union for prisoner officers in Wellington, Wayne Bywater said it was important to get the message across right around the state because it was something that concerned prison workers everywhere.

“We have fears if Parklea is approved for privatisation it will continue down the line,” Mr Bywater said.

“We have had a fair bit of media coverage today, so hopefully we can get the message out there.”

NSW Minister for Corrective Services John Robertson said the Government had already ruled out the privatisation of any other jails.

“I can reassure local residents and workers that private sector operation will not be introduced by this Government at Wellington jail,” he said.

“Wellington is the State’s newest Correctional Centre, supporting long term employment and economic growth for the local community and we are committed to keeping it that way.”

NSW Public Service Association Chairman Matt Binley said it was important for the Government to realise that staff in rural and regional areas didn’t accept what the Government was trying to do.

Mr Binley said he was pleased with the turn out and way the protest was conducted

“The Wellington officers really helped in putting the message out there,” he said.

“Every time we have a demonstration I think we get the Government’s attention. Although it would have been nice to see some MPs present, I think we already have their support.

“If we can get the MPs in these areas to take notice to what their constituents want, then maybe they can push it in the halls of Parliament.”

lucy.rowles@ruralpress.com