Union, justice department to find solution to 24-hour shifts at HMP

A long standing problem at Her Majesty's Penitentiary has reared its head once again, but government and the union representing correctional officers say they will find a way to limit 24-hour shifts.

• 24-hour shifts persist at Her Majesty's Penitentiary

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE) said its position on back-to-back shifts has not changed since the issue was raised last year.

"There may be times where operational requirements in any facility, that may be a necessity, but it shouldn't be [the norm]," said NAPE president Jerry Earle.

Earle said he was taken aback when he saw a statement from government blaming the union and its members for the long hours worked by correctional officers.

While he can't speak for individual guards, Earle said NAPE does want to work with government to discontinue the practice. 

Pressure from guards

Meanwhile, Justice and Public Safety Minister Andrew Parsons said he too is concerned about the dangers that come with 24-hour shifts for correctional officers.

However, Parsons said pressure from some officers to work the shifts, along with sick leave, have contributed to 32 such shifts last month.

"Just adding more staff is not going to solve the issue. I've been talking to officials at Her Majesty's and the administration, [and they say] that the staffing model that we have is quite adequate to meet the operational needs," he said.

Parsons said he will take any measures possible to discontinue 24-hour shifts but did not specify what actions will be taken.

NAPE and the department will meet to discuss staffing as well as other issues at the province's largest prison.