Inmates’ A.i.d.s. Risk Study (Press, 24 August 1988)
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Summary: Inmates’ A.i.d.s. Risk Study (Press, 24 August 1988)
On 24 August 1988, New Zealand’s Minister of Justice, Mr Palmer, announced the formation of an inter-departmental working party to study behaviours in prisons that could contribute to the spread of AIDS. This initiative comes in response to concerns regarding how certain activities, particularly those involving sex and needle sharing, may facilitate the transmission of the virus. The Justice Department indicated that the working party would also investigate other potential behaviours, including tattooing, that could lead to the spread of the disease. To date, two inmates have tested positive for HIV; however, the department confirmed there have been no cases of full-blown AIDS within the prison system. Despite the current minimal incidence rate, Mr Palmer emphasised the importance of ongoing vigilance, stating, “The issue of AIDS is not going to go away. So far there appears to be no cure for this infection. The only thing we can do about it is try to prevent it.” He highlighted the urgency of implementing preventive measures in the closed environment of prisons. Mr Palmer refrained from commenting on potentially controversial proposals, such as allowing condom distribution or introducing a needle-exchange scheme for inmates, pending the findings of the working party. A significant concern regarding the distribution of condoms is the potential for misuse, particularly in terms of concealing drugs. The working party will consist of representatives from both the Justice and Health departments. Meanwhile, the Opposition spokesperson on health, Mr Don McKinnon, voiced criticism of the government's response to the issue, suggesting that insufficient action could result in prisons becoming breeding grounds for the AIDS virus. He warned that allowing the disease to spread unchecked within prisons could create a significant health crisis for future generations.
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