Commissioner's update for correctional employees: October 28, 2024

Last week, I had the honour of attending a recognition ceremony at Port-Cartier Institution to celebrate the exceptional work of CSC employees involved in the evacuation of the institution. Last June, more than 220 maximum security inmates were evacuated and transferred to other institutions in the Quebec Region because of the raging wildfires. This was no small undertaking as it was all done within a 24-hour period.

I’ve said before that in my 40+ years at CSC, this is the first time I have seen us roll out such a significant operation, with public safety being top of mind every step of the way. Again, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the staff at Port-Cartier for your relentless efforts. I also want to thank the staff in other institutions, who worked tirelessly to welcome the transferred inmates, as well as staff from Regional and National Headquarters who supported this effort.

I know that you had to work long hours and some of you are still dealing with the impacts of this unprecedented operation. Every contribution truly mattered (big or small) and I am extremely proud of CSC and our team for what we were able to accomplish, together.

Last week, I also went to the Federal Training Centre, in Quebec, as a follow up to my last visit there. I held a town hall and had the opportunity to visit the different units and speak directly with staff.

Occupational Therapy Month

October is Occupational Therapy Month. I would like to acknowledge CSC’s occupational therapists and the pivotal role they play in supporting those in our care and custody.

As regulated health-care professionals, they use assessments and interventions to assist people with health concerns. This includes helping remove barriers that interfere with their ability to engage in day-to-day activities.

I want to thank you for your ongoing support, and the work you do that allows offenders to work, study, practice self-care, engage in daily activities, and improve their lives. I also encourage everyone to take the opportunity this month to recognize the positive impact that occupational therapists have and thank them for their dedication to improving lives.

Guidance for public servants on the personal use of social media

Two weeks ago, during Symposium on Values and Ethics, the Chief Human Resources Officer shared a draft of the Guidance for Public Servants on their Personal Use of Social Media, following requests from public servants on the topic.
It provides information on our responsibilities as public servants and personal use of social media on non-government devices and networks, and on personal time. It also outlines best practices, considerations, and questions we should be asking ourselves as public servants when we use personal social media.
I encourage you to review the draft and share any comments or feedback you have:

• Guidance for Public Servants on their Personal Use of Social Media (Internal Link)

Use of artificial intelligence

The Chief Information Officer also spoke to public servants on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). A guidance document was developed to support employees when using generative AI and help public servants use it responsibly.

• Generative AI in your daily work.

I am grateful for your exceptional work and dedication.