REFORMING THE DRUNKARD

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVII, Issue 14301, 22 February 1910, Page 6

REFORMING THE DRUNKARD

WORK AT PAKATOA.

PERCENTAGE OF CURES.

The amendments made in the Reformatories Act last seesidn have given- greater powers to magistrates in committing drunkards to inebriates', homes. Formerly such action could only be taken in respect to a person with a series of convictions for drunkenness; but now the relatives of drunkards may have them committed on the certificates of two medical men, if they satisfy the magistrate that the person in respect to whom the application is made is a fit subject for an inebriates' home. Breaches of prohibition orders may also be a qualification for commitment. The effect, of the amendment since it became operative has been to keep the inebriates home on Pakatoa Island pretty full. At the present time over 50 men are accepting a spell of teetotalism with more or less cheerfulness, and no more can be taken until the terms of some expire, which will be in a few weeks. One amendment of the Act, of which Staff-Captain Barnes, who - is', in charge of the institution, speaks favourably is that which permits drunkards to be committed on the application of relatives at the expense of the Government. Formerly the cost of maintenance was a deterrent, even when the drunkard was willing to go to Pakatoa, and if he were unwilling he could not be forced until the necessary number of convictions were; recorded against him. Staff-Captain Barnes recognises, however, that if laxly administered this provision in the Act might encourage a conspiracy to get rid of an unpopular relative by keeping him in a state of intoxication for some days, and then haling him before doctors and magistrate.

The officer in charge speaks very hopefully of the reformative work now being carried on at Pakatoa Island. He knows of a number of men who have gone to the island, either voluntarily or under compulsion, who are now back into society as sober, 'industrious units. On the other hand, he, knows of men who have not observed the virtue of abstinence inculcated at Pakatoa. ' Though it is somewhat early yet to speak, he estimates the percentage, of cures at 30. Naturally there are others who, while not- completely cured, have yet gained much physical and moral benefit from a stay at Pakatoa. Some lives have undoubtedly been saved, for men have gone to the island giving every, indication that they would have drunk themselves to death in a few months, and in two months, instead of being so much nearer the grave, have been restored to health. ■ Trouble was experienced some time ago with a man who made it his business to meet those returning from Pakatoa and try to persuade them to celebrate their freedom with a glorious spree, but a magisterial rebuke has made him more reasonable. Work at Pakatoa is hampered by lack of accommodation, and it is expected that larger buildings sit Ruthe's Island, which is to be used for males, Pakatoa being reserved for women drunkards, will be commenced very shortly.