New Lai King Correctional Institution starts operation (with photos)
************************************************************

    The newly renovated Lai King Correctional Institution (LKCI), with a capacity of 240 penal places for young female offenders, begins operation today (May 28).

    Under the institution regrouping project of the Correctional Services Department, Lai King Training Centre (LKTC) has been re-gazetted as LKCI to accommodate all former inmates at Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institution (TGCI) and Chi Lan Rehabilitation Centre (CLRC). Tai Tam Gap Correctional Institution will be renovated to function as a centre for receiving male young offenders.

    Senior Superintendent (Penal Administration) Dr Kwan Ming-tak said the reshuffle alleviated overcrowding in female institutions, and the conversion works paved the way for service betterment and upgrading of ageing facilities in the concerned institutions.

    "Completion of the project by the end of this year will also enhance resource deployment in male training centres to fully utilise resources of various correctional programmes," Dr Kwan said.

"More facilities will be available for extended rehabilitation services, such as vocational training for food and beverage and hair-styling, and provide venues for matching programmes following the launch of Risk and Needs Assessment and Management Protocol for Offenders."

Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:46

NNNN