A district court judge spoke out in Invercargill last week about drug offending and the risks it poses in our country.

 Judge Michael Crosbie described the drug industry as “out of control,” saying it brought havoc to homes, families, and individuals - leading to addiction and misery.

 His comments were sobering and brought home the reality of increased drug supply and use in communities like Southland.

 That’s why the Government’s announcement last week, of a $1.9 billion investment in keeping Kiwis safe from crime, is so very relevant.

 We must crack down on crime and restore law and order - and that means ensuring there are serious consequences for offenders - like those who deal in drugs.

 The Government intends to expand prison capacity, hire more frontline Corrections officers and put more money into rehabilitation programmes in its new $1.9 billion package.

 This massive investment reflects National and ACT’s coalition agreement to increase funding for prison capacity.

 The Government will deliver an 810-bed extension to Waikeria prison to ensure capacity and to support our commitment to stronger sentencing for criminals.

 We will also deliver 685 new frontline staff at Corrections, including 470 corrections officers, who will be recruited and trained to respond to growing prisoner numbers, and we will invest more in rehabilitation programmes.

 I am pleased with the Government’s comprehensive plan to restore law and order – because people in places like Southland deserve to feel safer.

 The plan also includes recruiting 500 additional frontline Police, giving them powers to crack down on gang offending and illegal firearms, bringing back Three Strikes, establishing military academies for youth offenders and bringing in tougher sentences.

 This Government is serious about restoring law and order. Our plan means that people in this province, and around the country, can feel safer and that criminals will face tougher consequences for crime.

Funded by Parliamentary Services.

Published by arrangement