Tai Tokerau MP Hone Harawira says Maori can do a better job running prisons than the Corrections Department.
He says that's why the Maori Party is backing the Government's plans to let prison management contracts to private companies.
He says the department has a poor track record in dealing with Maori, despite Maori making up half the prison population.
Mr Harawira that private prisons should be seen as a chance for reform rather than a business opportunity.
He told Waatea News that Maori-run prisons could instill kaupapa Maori values in inmates.
