Question regarding the transfer of young offenders to and from Banksia Hill Detention Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically inter-regional transfers and preventative measures. The answer confirms intra-regional transfers are occurring with COVID-19 protocols in place.

AnsweredQoN 6100Legislative Assembly
Asked
15 April 2020
Portfolio
Emergency Services; Corrective Services

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the transfer of young offenders to and from Banksia Hill Detention Centre, and I ask: (a) Are inter-regional transfers (e.g. from the Kimberley to Perth and back) continuing as at 9 April 2020; (b) If yes to (a), what measures have been put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19/coronavirus; and (c) If no to (a), what interim detention measures are being utilised?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
19 May 2020
Responded by
Minister for Emergency Services; Corrective Services
Response time
6 days
(a) It is confirmed that intra-regional transfers are occurring for young people returning to the Kimberley from Banksia Hill Detention Centre (BHDC).
(b) In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, BHDC has developed and implemented a Pandemic Plan which includes actions such as ceasing of social visits, social distancing during education and recreation activities, increased use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and a focus on hygiene and cleaning practices. Regular monitoring occurs of the young people’s health status by the medical staff. Specifically for young people returning to the Kimberley area, the Department has followed the directives of the Chief Biosecurity Officer and the Western Australian Police (WAPOL) arising from the Emergency Management Act and the Biosecurity Act. Banksia Hill Detention Centre was approved as a place of quarantine supporting the expedited transfer of young people into Bio Security Controlled Zones, with provisional approval extended to adult prisons.
(c) Not applicable.

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