The Community Probation Services has been told to put more emphasis on ensuring public safety when monitoring offenders on parole.
An expert panel established to work with probation services has suggested a number of changes to help improve public safety and reduce re-offending by those on probation.
Panel chair Paula Rebstock told Parliament's Law and Order Select Committee on Wednesday the way probation officers work is based too heavily on following instruction manuals.
She said the establishment of a new role of chief probation officer will also help.
