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Staff Training 41. A staff training school has been established at Wellington Prison where all recruits will receive an induction course and elementary training. So far one such course has been held. Some experimental short courses have been held for other junior and intermediate officers. These have all proved most useful not only for educational and training purposes, but also for the sharpening of general morale. I)he Department has appreciated the interest and assistance received from Professor D. 0/ Marsh, of the Chair of Social Science, and from others of the staff of Victoria University College. APPRECIATION 42. The Department is indebted for help and services received from many quarters. Reference has already been made to the professional services of the medical officers of the Mental Hygiene Division of the Health Department. The Maori Welfare Officers do much for Maoris released on probationary licence, while the staff of the Labour and Employment Department is always ready to assist in seeking employment for discharged prisoners. In addition to their regular visits medical officers appointed to the various institutions are always available in emergencies. 43. Visiting Justices, Visiting Committees to Borstal institutions, and Official Visitors, independently of departmental officers, maintain a useful oversight on conditions in institutions and provide additional avenues for complaints any prisoner may wish to make. 44. The Women's Borstal Association continues to render outstanding service in taking a personal and individual interest in each of the inmates at Arohata ; and later through associate members throughout the country, in maintaining a helpful oversight and supervision during the probationary period of those who are released, on licence. 45. The Department places particular value on the interest taken in religious and welfare work by the Churches, by individuals, and by various voluntary organizations. I desire to express thanks and appreciation to the ministers of religion, to the Salvation Army, and the various voluntary welfare organizations, and to the many kindly disposed individuals who do so much in ministering to, and in brightening the lot of, those who are in the Department's care. I am confident that all these good people must have satisfaction in knowing that much good results from their efforts. 46. Lastly, I place on record my thanks to all members of the staff of the Department for their assistance and co-operation during the past year. I know that Mr. Dallard and Mr. Barnett will wish me to associate them in this expression of appreciation. CONCLUSION 47. With the changes which have taken place in the administrative control of the Department during the past several months, much time has been devoted to a stocktaking of policy and of administration. Some changes have already been made and, as disclosed in this report, others are contemplated. But further developments must in the main await the return of Mr. Barnett at the end of the year from his tour overseas. He is acquainting himself with recent trends in the United Kingdom, on the Continent, and in the United States of America relating to all phases of prison administration. The Department hopes to advance the effectiveness of the work which has been developed over recent years. Advancement must, however, largely depend on an improvement in the staffing situation, on the improvement of accommodation and equipment, and on the expenditure of much time and thought. E. J. Gifford, Acting Controller-General.

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