Prison operator Serco says there is no separate gay and transgender unit at Mt Eden Corrections Facility, as suggested by a man who says he is an ex-prisoner who has hosted an online ‘ask me anything’ session. The man, who says he was recently released after four years behind bars in a number of New Zealand correctional facilities, has taken to Reddit to answer a wide range of questions about prison life. In response to a question about gay, bisexual and transgender prisoners, the man writes: “I never saw an openly gay prisoner or transgender [prisoner] in mainstream so I guess the reason for that is they aren't treated well amongst mainstream. I know there was a unit in Mt Eden that was solely transgender, gays etc.” A spokesperson for private operator Serco, which runs Mt Eden Corrections Facility, has confirmed to GayNZ.com Daily News no such specifically gay and transgender unit exists, though prisoners can ask to be placed in a segregated unit. “Mt Eden Corrections Facility runs a weekly support group, where transgender, transsexual, cross-dressing and gay prisoners meet and talk through a variety of issues with a community facilitator. They discuss positive experiences, concerns and coping mechanisms within a prison setting. Any specific issues or concerns raised would be promptly addressed by staff,” the spokesperson says. Serco says it’s committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all prisoners, and does not tolerate discrimination against any group of people. Gay ex-prisoners GayNZ.com has spoken to in the past range from stating they had carefully hidden their sexuality while doing their time, to facing discrimination within the prison population, to being out and having no issues. Changes to the Corrections Act which came into effect in February mean transgender prisoners are able to apply to be placed in a prison which fits their gender identity. Serco says since then, its staff have supported the transfer of a transgender prisoner to a women’s prison. Some prisons overseas do have separate 'gay wings' - see the video from LA Weekly below. Have you done time and want to share your experiences? We can tell your story, while keeping your name out of it if you wish. Just email news@gaynz.com
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 11th December 2014 - 2:36pm