Corrections at the risk of COVID-19 outbreak
Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is suspending visits at all of its sites in the province, as well as temporary absences and work releases from institutions.
This decision is a proactive and preventative measure given that community transmission of the virus has risen in recent days. It follows extensive consultation with public health officials and will be reassessed on a weekly basis.
Offenders will continue to participate in on-site programming and activities that support their rehabilitation. Health services will be maintained and temporary absences for medical and compassionate reasons will continue, as needed. Offenders are encouraged to continue connecting with their families and loved ones by telephone or video visitation.
“We recognize these measures may be difficult for offenders and their families. In all our operations, we must put everyone’s health and safety first as we work to provide offenders with the supports they need.”- Anne Kelly, Commissioner, Correctional Service Canada
All sites across the country have implemented extensive health and safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include wearing masks, physical distancing, hand hygiene, active health screening of anyone entering an institution, and increased cleaning and disinfecting. In addition, CSC has conducted infection prevention and control reviews at all of its institutions, built its own contact tracing capacity, and implemented comprehensive COVID-19 testing for inmates and staff.
The additional measures do not currently affect sites in other provinces. This is an evolving situation and we continue to work with public health authorities to monitor the situation and take additional actions, as needed.
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