Question NW1615 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
21 June 2023 - NW1615
Yako, Ms Y to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(a) What contingency human resource plans does the Department of Correctional Services have in place to mitigate harassment of officials by other officials and (b) how expediently are such cases handled?
Reply:
a) Department has established a committee dealing with harassment incidents generally. During awareness campaigns and at morning parades when addressing the Code of Conduct, officials are sensitised about harassment.
For 2022/23, Quarter 04, the Department trained 240 officials to capacitate them to investigate, initiate and chair cases of harassment. During the Women’s month, Children’s month and the month of people living with disability, young women are targeted for training and awareness on harassment in the workplace.
The reported incidents of harassment are investigated and the outcome of the investigation will determine the disciplinary action to be taken against alleged transgressors. The victims are referred to Employee Assistance Practitioners for emotional and psychological support.
b) Each case is handled according to its own merits. The nature and complexity including availability of all relevant parties determines the expediency of each case.
END.