Commissioner's update for correctional employees: June 24, 2024

It was an unprecedented weekend for many of us at CSC, especially in the Quebec Region.

Given the intensification of forest fires in the City of Port-Cartier, Quebec, an evacuation order was issued on Friday, June 21, including the area in which Port-Cartier Institution is located. All weekend, the Quebec Region worked tirelessly, around the clock, to evacuate 225 maximum security inmates from the affected area to other federal institutions. It was an extremely complex operation with many variables at play, including a volatile wildfire situation.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved for your relentless efforts this past weekend in ensuring a safe and successful transfer of all inmates of Port-Cartier institution. Such a huge effort required the involvement of Port-Cartier and Quebec Region staff, many sectors, other regions, various levels of government, and public safety partners. Thank you!  I also want to recognize and thank the staff at all of the receiving institutions for taking in offenders. In my 40+ years at CSC, this is the first time I have seen us roll out such a significant operation, while keeping public safety top of mind every step of the way.

These kinds of situations are not small undertakings. It takes a coordinated, multi-disciplinary, and collaborative approach on the part of many staff and partners. And through much hard work, long hours and perseverance, you were able to rise to the challenge, together as a team. All of your actions, individual contributions and support for one another is truly remarkable, and led to a successful outcome. Every contribution truly matters (big or small)! I am extremely proud of CSC and our team. Your professionalism, know-how, and ability to get things done, and navigate adversity is exemplary.

For now, Port-Cartier institution is currently closed for visits, including to volunteers, contractors or other personnel. We still have work to do as we plan for the way forward and continue working with our partners and staff on the next steps. Today is a provincial holiday in Quebec, but I have a meeting scheduled with the Region tomorrow.

I also want to recognize that this is a difficult time for our CSC colleagues and their families living in Port-Cartier and other affected areas. Please know that we are thinking of you and your loved ones.

Again, thank you for everything. For those who are running on little sleep, please take time to rest and recharge. Most importantly, take pride in what you have accomplished under such extraordinary circumstances.

Officially welcoming the Atlantic Regional Deputy Commissioner

CSC Supports John Howard Society in Victoria, British Colombia

Lastly, Bonne Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Bonne Fête nationale du Québec! As a proud Francophone, I join millions across the country today in celebration of our language, traditions, and the immense contributions that Francophones make to Canada.

Next weekend is the Canada Day long weekend so I wanted to wish everyone a happy Canada Day! For those who will be working over the long weekend to maintain our operations, thank you for your hard work, commitment, and dedication to keeping Canadians safe.

My thanks to each and every one of you for the important work you do every day.