Section 5 Penal Institutions Utilizing PFI Method
From the point of view of alleviating the problem of overcrowding and utilizing a new system in the operation of penal institutions, the PFI (Private Finance Initiative) method (a method of constructing, maintaining, and operating public facilities utilizing the funds and know-how of the private sector) is being developed in accordance with the Act on Promotion of Private Finance Initiative (PFI) (Act No. 117 of 1999), which was established with the aim of utilizing social capital in an efficient and effective manner.
As the first project that utilizes the PFI method, the Mine Rehabilitation Program Center (detention capacity of 1,000 persons in FY 2008) was constructed in Mine City in Yamaguchi Prefecture and started operating in April 2007 as the first prison operated in a partnership between the public and private sectors. The Kitsuregawa Rehabilitation Program Center (2,000 persons (id.)) and Harima Rehabilitation Program Center (1,000 persons (id.)) then commenced operation in October, 2007 and the Shimane Asahi Rehabilitation Program Center (2,000 persons (id.)) in October 2008.
At these penal institutions, in order to facilitate the smooth reintegration of inmates into society after their release, a variety of vocational training is provided that utilizes the know-how and ideas of the private sector, including training for food coordinators and system engineers (Mine Rehabilitation Program Center), acquisition of personal computer skills, and obtaining home helper qualifications, etc. In addition, various distinctive educational programs have also been implemented.
Social action programs have also been implemented, including the puppy program (Shimane Asahi Rehabilitation Program Center), which was operated in cooperation with the Japan Guide Dog Association, and in which inmates provided basic socializing training to puppies aged 12 months or younger.
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