Scottish Greens Highland MSP John Finnie says more support needed for early release prisoners during coronavirus pandemic
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Any prisoners released as part of emergency coronavirus measures must get full support to reintegrate into society, a Scottish Green MSP has said.
Highlands and Islands MSP John Finnie welcomed the announcement that some prisoners are set to be released early as part of emergency Covid-19 measures.
He said: “The Scottish Government has had a difficult task to balance the rights and needs of victims, prisoners, prison staff and families, but this decision to go ahead with limited early release is the right one, with some important exceptions for public safety.
"Apart from anything else, we simply don’t have enough cells for inmates to self-isolate.
“Many prisoners are released with no home to go to, and as well as housing and financial assistance, individuals often need support with addictions and both physical and mental health issues.
"Addressing these challenges is even more important in the current crisis.
"Highland Council and NHS Highland must work closely with the Scottish Prison Service to ensure prisoners and their families have the support required to reintegrate into their communities at this difficult time.”
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