MP unhappy inmates allowed to play league

The MP for Northland is up in arms about a decision allowing inmates from Ngawha Prison to play in the Whangarei and Districts Rugby League competition.

Officials have accepted the Ngawha Saints which will play all their games at Ngawha Prison, near Kaikohe.

MP John Carter says the purpose of prison is to punish inmates and allowing them to play sport with the mainstream sends the wrong message.

However Acting Northland District Police Commander Inspector Paul Dimery says the whole philosophy of Ngawha is rehabilitation and allowing the inmates to play in the competition is a good way of reintegrating them back into society.

- NEWSTALK ZB