Question NW1969 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Service

Reply:

(a) The minimum requirements for the position of parole board Chairperson is a recognised and appropriate NQF level 07 qualification in any Criminal Justice field, Social Sciences or related. Five (05) years of experience in management or decision making position. He/She is required to have demonstrable experience of and ability to conduct effective evidence-based decision making, weighing facts and evidence, analysing and critically evaluating large volumes of complex information and identifying key issues, within tight deadlines and working on own initiative.

Demonstrable independence of mind and sound judgment, with the ability to make evidence based decisions that are accurately documented. Excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to gain respect and maintain rapport through effective communication and influencing skills with the confidence to challenge opinions where necessary, work collegiately and resolve differences to reach sound decisions.

The member should uphold corporate and personal integrity standards and conduct, such as a strong commitment to fairness, time management skills, organisational and administrative skills, strong personal motivation and commitment to professional self-development. Traceable experience of any aspect of the criminal justice system and understanding of the importance of the victim’s perspective.

The Vice-Chairperson is required to possess a recognised and appropriate NQF level 07 qualification in any Criminal Justice field, Social Sciences or related. Proven three (03) years supervisory role or community leadership experience as well as active involvement in community-based structures. Commitment to a corruption free administration. Good standing with the community with extensive life experience. Proven special interest in the Criminal Justice System as well as understanding of the importance of the victim’s perspective.

The Community Member is required to possess a NQF level 6 qualification in one of the following fields: Criminal Justice, Community Development, Social Science, Policing or Human Rights related field. Five (05) years’ experience in community development work and/or Criminal Justice. Previous experience in a decision making capacity is advantageous.

(b) In line with Section 42 (2)(d) of Correctional Services Act 111 of 1998, the Case Management Committee (CMC) is required to submit a report, together with the relevant documents, to the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board regarding the offence for which the offender is sentenced including the judgement. The report referred to should contain the previous criminal record of such offender including the record of conduct, disciplinary, adaptation, training, aptitude, industry, physical and mental state of such offender.

The likelihood of a relapse into crime and the risk posed to the community including the manner in which this risk can be reduced and assessment results with the progress in relation to the correctional sentence plan are also required as part of the report.

A report on the possible placement of an offender under correctional supervision in terms of a sentence is provided for in section 276 (1) (i) or 287 (4) (a) of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA), or in terms of the conversion of such offender’s sentence into correctional supervision under section 276A (3) (e) (ii) or 287 (4) (b) of the said Act, and the conditions for such placement: the possible placement of such sentenced offender on day parole, parole or medical parole, and the conditions for such placement.

A certified copy of the offender’s identity document and, in the case of a foreign national, a report from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on the residential status of such offender are a requirement.

END.