Attacks on Nebraska prison corrections officers and staff are more frequent and violent in recent months.  Just last week nine workers at the Lincoln Correctional Center were assaulted by inmates and a staff at the youth center in Kearney was stabbed with a broken broom handle.  Governor Pete Ricketts says those vacancies can be filled but first changes need to be made with the union contract.  Mike Marvin is the executive director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees and says he is ready to talk now.

Marvin says the correctional facilities have been understaffed for twelve years and bringing those levels up would reduce violent outbreaks by inmates.  He says along with work conditions pay needs to be addressed.

Marvin says inmates must also be held accountable for their actions and face further charges for attacking staff.