22 October
Fifteen staff from Tongariro/Rangipo Prison were recognised with long service awards on Friday 22 October. The event recognised custodial and non-custodial staff from the Prison and Corrections Inmate Employment (CIE) staff who have given 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 years of service.
“Senior staff, such as those here today, are critical to our success in providing high performing Prison Services which improve the safety of our local community,” said Regional Manager Jeanette Burns.
“To the recipients I would say that, in essence, you are role models for staff and have a critical leadership role in helping the Department to achieve its ultimate goal of improving public safety.
“The medals awarded today are recognition that you have demonstrated commitment, good character and professionalism consistently over a number of years. It is these characteristics that Corrections values highly and I have absolute confidence that each of the recipients here today has the ability, the experience and the adaptability to fulfil this ongoing key leadership role.
“Working in our prisons is a very difficult and challenging job and the pressures often don’t cease when staff members go home at the end of a shift. I would like to acknowledge the support that each of today’s recipients has received from their families. It is the love and support of families and friends that provide the foundation for strong teams.
“Congratulations to each officer and staff member receiving their Award today. You all display the necessary virtues of courage, integrity and discipline every single day and you are our everyday heroes.”
The award ceremony was held in Turangi and attended by Corrections staff, family and friends of the recipients, MP for Taupo Hon Louise Upton, and Corrections Chief Executive Barry Matthews.
The awards are issued under authority delegated by Her Majesty the Queen, under Royal Warrant. The New Zealand Prison Service medal is granted for long service to Custodial Staff. In 2005 it was decided to also recognise non-custodial long serving staff with Departmental badges.
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