WHEATFIELD Prison is still awaiting the go ahead for a drugs treatment programme submitted to the Department of Justice almost 18 months ago, the visiting committee's annual report says.
As many as two thirds of prisoners may have used heroin at some time in their lives, a recent survey shows. "The issue of addiction makes it far more difficult to work on educational issues with offenders in any sustained or serious manner," the report says.
The prison's library staff have started an "over 35 club" for what the report terms "elderly" prisoners. Up to 30 prisoners have joined. Nine offenders have completed a "start your own business" course.