Commissioner's update for correctional employees: August 6, 2024
This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC's Commissioner.
Our Mission: The Correctional Service of Canada, as part of the criminal justice system and respecting the rule of law, contributes to public safety by actively encouraging and assisting offenders to become law-abiding citizens, while exercising reasonable, safe, secure and humane control.
As wildfires continue to spread and cause damage across the country, including in areas close to some of our institutions, my thoughts go out to everyone who is affected.
The news of these fires can also take a heavy toll on the mental health of those impacted, so it is important that we continue to support one another.
If you wish to speak to someone, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) referral agents are available to listen and help you find appropriate, helpful resources to support you.
Telus Health is also available not only to all employees, but also to eligible family members 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- EAP referral agents (accessible only on the Government of Canada network)
- Employee Assistance Program / Telus Health (accessible only on the Government of Canada network)
CSC Supports New Affordable Housing in Vancouver, British Columbia
Last week, it was announced that all levels of government will partner in the construction of a new affordable housing and transition complex to better support vulnerable residents in Vancouver. CSC is providing funding to help support this important initiative, in addition to the support from B.C. Housing, the City of Vancouver, and the Salvation Army.
Construction has already started on the new nine-storey building, which will be made up of 300 units, and include program spaces, shelter beds and supportive and affordable homes. The facility will help vulnerable residents be able to regain their health, obtain shelter, participate in a recovery program from substance use, access affordable housing, build employment skills and rebuild their personal relationships so that they can become productive and contributing members of society.
I am pleased that we were able to support this important initiative and I invite you to learn more about how it will help those transitioning to the community:
Pride Season
As Pride Season continues, CSC will be represented at Pride events across the country. I encourage everyone to learn more about events happening in your area.
Public Service Pride Week is coming up this month (August 19 to 23) and will feature a variety of events for public servants. To learn more about how you can participate, visit: Public Service Pride.
These are great opportunities for all public servants to show support for the Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Plus (2SLGBTQ+) community and the Clerk’s Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion in the Federal Public Service.
National Peacekeepers’ Day
August 9 is National Peacekeepers’ Day. Throughout the years, CSC has played an integral part in Canada’s efforts to:
- bring security
- uphold human rights, and
- promote democracy and the respect for the rule of law in places experiencing conflict.
CSC employees have participated in peacekeeping efforts in countries such as Kosovo, Haiti and Afghanistan.
I am proud of CSC’s contributions to advocate for peace and correctional reforms around the world. I encourage everyone to take the time today to recognize these incredible efforts.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
August 9 is International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, which is an opportunity to raise awareness and protect the rights of Indigenous populations around the world.
Respecting Indigenous cultural views of justice and reconciliation is part of CSC’s commitment to the care, custody, and reintegration of Indigenous offenders. This is integral to CSC’s culturally responsive programs and services. CSC collaborates with Indigenous partners and stakeholders to improve offenders’ outcomes while supporting their healing journey. We recognize the inherent value of reconciliation, and I encourage you to embark on or continue your own learning journey on the path to reconciliation.
You can find a more complete list of important dates recognized by the Government of Canada at Canadian Heritage. You may also visit the Prime Minister’s page to read statements on these commemorative dates.
Thank you all for your continued efforts and commitment towards CSC’s mandate to contribute to public safety.
Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.
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