Deputy Speaker and hon members, the UDM appreciates the hon Minister's statement and thanks her for coming before this House to discuss this matter. What we are concerned about is that there are media reports indicating that the department possessed information beforehand of a planned escape, yet did not put into place safety measures.
Thorough reviews of the problems and challenges of Correctional Services have been conducted previously. The problems that come with overcrowding, especially with regard to awaiting-trial prisoners, are well known. Regrettably, the challenges have never been adequately addressed and keep coming back to haunt us.
As the Jali Commission demonstrated comprehensively, corruption is widespread in the department. The failure to root it out lies with the leadership of the department and, as such, despite the circumstances surrounding this incident, the department is not absolved of its responsibility.
However, we highly appreciate the swiftness and decisiveness of the hon Minister and the actions that the hon Minister has taken to address this matter. Thank you. [Time expired.]