CO129-267 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1895 [4-6] — Page 460

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duties satisfactorily..

As to the want of a proper mess room and the

absence of any recreation room I have reported fully in C. S. 0. 1451/1894.

There is no doubt that a comfortable mess room and recreation room with a

billiard table should be provided for the European staff. A warder's duties

are monotonous to a degree and entail great strain on a man's nervous system.

It is of great importance that the men should be able to find recreation in

their quarters instead of being forced to seek it in the town.

Since I have had charge of the gaol I have repeatedly

reported on the unsatisfactory condition of the staff but I submit that the

very large list of casualties for the last 2 years warrants my again bringing

to notice. At the present time many of the officers take no interest whatever

in their duties which they perform in a half hearted manner and frequently

entirely neglect. Prisoners are slack at their work as they know that some

of the officers in charge of them are indifferent as to how it is done and

if an officer is reported and dismissed the man engaged in his place probably

turns out equally unsatisfactory. I therefore trust that my recommendations

may receive early attention and if they be approved that provision might be

made in next year's estimates for carrying them into effect.

I have &c.

(sa)

H. B. Lethbridge.

Superintendent.