Row over headscarf in prison

2005-05-11 09:34

Cape Town - The department of correctional services says it is sure an amicable solution will be found to the issue of a Muslim staffer suspended for wearing a headscarf.

Spokesperson Graham Abrahams said on Tuesday the department's Western Cape office had been instructed to call in the suspended staffer and Worcester prison management "to understand exactly what she's objecting to".

"The discussions will take place, and I'm sure we will find a solution to the issue," he said.

"I expect the suspension to come under review after these discussions and possibly lifted before the end of this week. These discussions should lead to a resolution of this matter."

Social worker Fairouz Adams was suspended for wearing the headscarf, and refusing to tuck in her shirt, in line with Islamic practice that women should cover their hair and wear clothing that does not show the body's shape.

In doing so, she fell foul of the department's dress regulations.

She has reportedly said she was not aware she could apply for an exemption from the regulations.

Strict dress code a security measure

Abrahams said on Tuesday there was a "real security reason" for staff not being allowed to wear clothing that could potentially be used as a weapon by inmates.

He himself wore a clip-on tie rather than a conventional tie, which could be used to strangle the wearer.

A long headscarf had the same potential risk as a tie.

The department said in a statement earlier that its dress code policy placed "special emphasis on security and discipline".

"In taking the steps they did, the management of the Worcester management area was implementing departmental policy as is required of them."

However, the department was sensitive to all citizens' constitutional rights "and would not maliciously or unreasonably take action against members who flout departmental policies".

- SAPA