In the initial procurement documents, Corrections said there was a clear need for the services. <\/p>\n
\u201cRongo\u0101 M\u0101ori is needed in the New Zealand corrections system given the significant over-representation of M\u0101ori and high levels of mental health need,\u201d Corrections wrote in the listing. <\/p>\n
Rongo\u0101 M\u0101ori care has been trialled at Tongariro Prison. Photo \/ NZME<\/p>\n
\u201cMore than 50% of people in prison identify as M\u0101ori, and over 90% have experienced a mental health or substance use disorder in their lifetime.\u201d<\/p>\n
The listing says during mirimiri treatment \u201cclothes [are] to remain on at all times\u201d. <\/p>\n
Corrections expected 111 hours of the programme to be provided each week, at an hourly rate of $175 an hour.<\/p>\n
That works out at $19,400 a week, or just over a million dollars a year.<\/p>\n
The total budget for the programme was $9m. <\/p>\n
On Tuesday morning, Mitchell\u2019s office was asked by Newstalk ZB whether he was aware of the plans. <\/p>\n
Three hours later, he confirmed he wasn\u2019t and said the programme \u201cdoesn\u2019t meet my expectations\u201d. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhen I came in as minister, I was very clear about taxpayers\u2019 money being used in rehabilitation had to be put towards practical skills.\u201d<\/p>\n
Moments after Mitchell\u2019s comments, Corrections deputy chief executive Leigh Marsh confirmed the project had been paused.<\/p>\n
Corrections deputy chief executive Leigh Marsh says it focuses on programmes and services that help reduce reoffending.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are continuously reviewing the programmes and services we deliver to ensure people are getting the right treatment and support at the right time, and that we are focusing on programmes and services that produce the best results in reducing reoffending and keeping the public safe.\u201d<\/p>\n