SA: SA prisoner lockdown during industrial action

AAP General News (Australia)
02-15-2007
SA: SA prisoner lockdown during industrial action

ADELAIDE, Feb 15 AAP - South Australian prisoners were refused breakfast and could
not leave their cells after the Public Service Association launched industrial action
today.

Talks started at 8am (CDT) today between the PSA and the South Australian government
over the association's concerns about safety at the Port Augusta prison.

The PSA says a stash of blades and weapons have been found at the country prison in
recent weeks and has demanded a full search.

Prison cells would not be unlocked or food served to inmates until the search was complete,
the association said.

All seven of the state's prisons are affected.

State Correctional Services Minister Carmel Zollo has urged the association to end the lockdown.

"This government is committed to ensuring a safe prison system," Ms Zollo told ABC radio.

"It is entirely irresponsible for the PSA to talk about member safety on one hand and,
at the same time, lock down the entire prison system and refuse to feed prisoners."

A government spokeswoman said it was hoped a resolution would be achieved by noon today.

AAP tkc/sp

KEYWORD: LOCKDOWN

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.