THE Liberal government and Greens have locked horns during Budget Estimates hearings on plans to introduce compulsory treatment for sex offenders. Cognitive behavioural therapy for incarcerated sex offenders is currently optional. Courts cannot compel prisoners to take part in the programs, but their non-participation may affect their parole prospects. It was yesterday revealed that nine out of 51 convicted sex offenders were refusing the treatment at Risdon Prison. Corrections Minister Vanessa Goodwin this morning said the community had been appalled by past revelations that sex offenders could decline treatment or rehabilitation while in jail. Dr Goodwin confirmed the government was pushing on with plans to make it compulsory for all sex offenders to receive appropriate treatment. She said the government was also looking to make it compulsory for the Parole Board to consider their participation in their deliberations. Greens justice spokesman Nick McKim said the government's approach was overly punitive and cast doubts about whether its hard-line tactics would work.
THE Liberal government and Greens have locked horns during Budget Estimates hearings on plans to introduce compulsory treatment for sex offenders.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for incarcerated sex offenders is currently optional.
Courts cannot compel prisoners to take part in the programs, but their non-participation may affect their parole prospects.
It was yesterday revealed that nine out of 51 convicted sex offenders were refusing the treatment at Risdon Prison.
Corrections Minister Vanessa Goodwin this morning said the community had been appalled by past revelations that sex offenders could decline treatment or rehabilitation while in jail.
Dr Goodwin confirmed the government was pushing on with plans to make it compulsory for all sex offenders to receive appropriate treatment.
She said the government was also looking to make it compulsory for the Parole Board to consider their participation in their deliberations.
Greens justice spokesman Nick McKim said the government's approach was overly punitive and cast doubts about whether its hard-line tactics would work.
