The festive season will be celebrated at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC), Canberra’s prison, despite detainees and correctional officers being away from family and friends.

Those at AMC will be able to attend multi-denominational services led by the prison chaplain. (ACT Corrective Services also acknowledges those of other faiths in custody who do not celebrate Christmas.)

In addition, detainees employed in AMC’s kitchens are preparing more than 500 special meals – including ham, pork, and Christmas pudding – to be served on Christmas Day.

Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Corrections, said it is important detainees stay connected to their friends and family during these times so that they have strong support networks when they leave the AMC and the best chance at rehabilitation.

While AMC will be closed for visitation on Christmas Day itself, in order for as many Corrective Services Officers to spend time with their families as possible, it will be open for the normal visiting hours on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

Mr Gentleman thanked Corrective Services officers working over the festive season for their commitment to keeping Canberrans safe.

ACT Corrective Services Commissioner Ray Johnson said ACT Corrective Services works hard to ensure that detainees can experience the important components of Christmas Day.

“We mark Christmas Day at the AMC in a manner that closely replicates that in the community. We encourage family and friends to visit their loved ones regularly, as this can make their release back into the community more successful.

“Detainees are involved in preparing a Christmas lunch and dinner. We also factor in cultural needs for those in our custody who do not celebrate Christmas.

“The chaplaincy group provides a Christmas pack to detainees, and Canberra Health Services has also donated Christmas presents for detainees to select a gift to give to their children at visits.

“We wish all of those at AMC a happy festive season, and hope that both detainees and corrective officers are able to see friends and family over the festive period.”