‘Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I’ve done it thousands of times.’
Mark Twain
The objective of this report is to inform decision makers of the likely outcomes from implementing total smoking bans in New Zealand prisons, and suggest options which will most effectively sustain cessation rates. Corrections Minister Judith Collins announced total smoking bans, for prisoners, would take effect from July 2011. Domestically, the reaction to Collins announcement has been divided and internationally similar initiatives have shown mixed results. Opponents outline very real risks to the potential for black market goods, an encroachment on civil liberties, and increased prison violence; while proponents outline flow on effects which include a potential for crime reduction, reduced methamphetamine and marijuana use, and lower health risks and costs.
This report looks at the NZ context including a growing public approval of smoking bans and the burgeoning costs of smoking related illnesses on the health sector. A report of this nature, placed within a comparative context, is necessary in highlighting potential benefits and risks, not only to individuals involved but to the wider public who fund such initiatives. The knowledge of such outcomes can not only be used to guide policy development and help in decision making regarding the acceptability of policy; but it can assist with improved policy implementation mitigating potential risks. It is anticipated that provided the policy is implemented according to recommendations, benefits will outweigh costs.