Troop review: Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Prof KC Chan inspects correctional officers at a passing-out parade.

The Correctional Services Department has strived to establish a safer and more inclusive society by providing comprehensive custodial and rehabilitation services.

This was the message from Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Prof KC Chan after inspecting a passing-out parade of correctional officers today.

Prof Chan said the department has strived to alleviate overcrowding in penal institutions and renew ageing facilities. The redevelopment of Lo Wu Correctional Institution will be completed by 2010 providing 1,400 penal places, while the conversion of Lai King Correctional Institution was completed last month to provide a better custodial environment for young female offenders.

He said the number of voluntary agencies engaged in helping offenders reintegrate into society has grown from 26 to 60 in the past three years. More than 2,000 volunteers have participated to provide rehabilitation services this year.

The department has also implemented the Risks & Needs Assessment & Management Protocol for Offenders as well as matching rehabilitation programmes to reduce recidivism among discharged offenders.