By 2010, Maori will be the most imprisoned people per capita in the world

Radio New Zealand:

Maori justice advocate, Moana Jackson, says Maori people must take the lead in moves to cut down the number of people sent to prisons.

Mr Jackson says Ministry of Justice estimates of future increases in prison populations, show that by 2010, Maori will be the most imprisoned people per capita in the world.

He told Waatea News two major inquiries back in the 1980s called for more rehabilitation and alternatives to prison, particularly for Maori, but those calls were howled down by those demanding tougher sentences.

Mr Jackson says alternatives do not mean being soft on crime, as it is clear from Maori history that those who commit wrongs have to pay the consequences.

Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples says repeat offending is the biggest problem with swelling prison populations.

Dr Sharples says that is because the current prison system does not give inmates the skills to make a proper go of life on the outside.

He says instead they are hooked on a culture of crime and violence.

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