DISCONTENTED WARDERS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18772, 28 July 1924, Page 5

DISCONTENTED WARDERS.

COMPLAINTS AT PENTRIDGE

PROMOTIONS AND HOURS.

Rumours of discontent are again heard among the warders at Pentridge, Melbourne, who declared that the InspectorGeneral of Penal Establishments, Mr. Akeroyd, has nnjnstly refused various requests made to him during the past few months.

Althougli it "was promised by the Government over six months ago, the 48 hours week has not been introduced, and it is alleged the consequent dissatisfaction may seriously affect the efficiency of prison administration throughout Victoria. " Our lot has never been a happy one," said one "warder recently, " and no effort has been made to improve it. Under the previous regime things were bad enough, but they are now going from bad to worse. Warders have a heavy responsibility, and their services to society should be better appreciated. Only last week all the warders off duty were called back because/a prisoner was missing. The man was discovered in hiding within the gaol, and society was saved the anxiety of a convict' at large. The public should not hear of these things, but if they knew that those who were protecting them were suffering under such disabilities they would see we were treated more considerately." It is alleged there is a growing bitterness at the shelving of senior men when promotions are being made. Another source of complaint is that another examination must be passed by those seeking promotion. This is known as penology, consisting of the study of prison management, as well as large portions of the Justices, Gaols, and Crimes Act. It is understood that tKe warders have held a meeting of protest, and that further representations are to be made to the authorities for the redress of grievances.