The Civil Service policy document on harassment, sexual harassment and bullying entitled A Positive Working Environment is applicable to civil servants, including prison officers. While the policy outlined in this document is being applied in the case of prison service employees, it is also necessary to adopt specific arrangements for prison staff in view of the special statutory arrangements which apply to them in regard to disciplinary matters and investigations. In the circumstances, a policy specifically designed for the Prison Service, but based on the Civil Service policy, is the subject of discussions between management and prison staff associations which are nearing conclusion.
On completion of these discussions, the Prison (Disciplinary Code for Officers) Rules 1996, will require to be amended to provide for the incorporation of the provisions of the policy. This will be done, expeditiously, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General.