Key meets first boot camp graduates

The first 10 graduates have emerged from the Government's military-style "activity camps" for serious young offenders and Prime Minister John Key met them in Christchurch today.

Establishing the camps became known as "boot camp" policy when it was announced by National before the 2008 election.

It is now known as the Fresh Start policy and Mr Key said the 10 graduates had been given the tools to turn their lives around.

Under the policy, serious young offenders can be ordered by the Youth Court to attend the activity camps, which reinforce self-discipline and personal responsibility using Defence Force facilities.

The youths who attend receive continued mentoring, treatment and support for up to a year.

"I want serious young offenders to have every chance to turn their lives around and reach their true potential," Mr Key said.

"These camps are tough, and that is how they should be.

"They also give young people the skills they need to change their behaviour and move into the workforce so they can make a positive contribution to our communities."

The graduates are now moving into the transition phase, when they will remain under supervision orders and will be given support to help them move back into their communities.

Social Development Minister Paula Bennett was also at the graduation ceremony, and said she could see the young men had taken on board the lessons from the course.

"They will face challenges and temptations but I'm backing them because I believe if they work hard they can turn their lives around," she said.

- NZPA