COVID-19 update for correctional employees: July 8, 2022

Given the evolution of the COVID-19 situation, changes have been made to the principal entrance screening process at institutions. We are moving to a passive screening questionnaire in place of the active screening that has been in place throughout the pandemic. The new process still requires an assessment by all:

• staff
• contractors, and
• visitors

But everyone can now conduct their own self-assessment using the screening poster that will be on display at the principal entrances. I want to thank all of you for your continued ability to adapt and for your ongoing cooperation as we collectively work towards limiting the transmission of the virus.

• Principal entrance screening (internal resource only)

The CSC badge: A symbol of pride and dedication

The CSC badge we wear on our uniforms did not always look like it does today. It was developed in the late 1970s:

• as an emblem of what CSC stands for, and
• to recognize the commitment and spirit that CSC employees demonstrate every day

Thank you to everyone who wears the CSC badge. It is a proud reminder of our daily obligations to protect society and provide hope and opportunities for offenders. Nothing could be more important than the work we do helping people rehabilitate and reintegrate. The badge remains a symbol of pride for the incredible dedicated work you carry out every day.

• Read about the development of the CSC badge: a history of pride

CORCAN builds COVID-19 self-isolation trailer

When Belleville’s only COVID-19 self-isolation centre closed, people experiencing homelessness had nowhere to properly self-isolate if they tested positive. Offenders in the CORCAN construction program stepped up and built a COVID-19 self-isolation trailer. Kudos to our dedicated staff who worked hard to make this project a reality. This was a positive experience for offenders who really benefited by helping out the community.

• CORCAN builds a COVID-19 self-isolation trailer for the homeless

Museum selling comeback snacks

At the beginning of June, the Penitentiary Museum in Kingston began selling gourmet popcorn, Comeback Snacks, to visitors. Emily O’Brien, the entrepreneur who started Comeback Snacks, has a witty reason for putting, Popcorn so good, it’s criminal, on the popcorn bags. She is a former offender who learned how to make unique popcorn toppings from other inmates when she was at Grand Valley Institution for Women. Determined to turn her life around when she was released, Emily started Comeback Snacks, which also helps promote reintegration programs and second chances for people with criminal records.

• Read more about Emily and Comeback Snacks

Nunavut Day

Tomorrow, July 9, is Nunavut Day, celebrating the day Parliament passed the Nunavut Act. The act divided the Northwest Territories, creating Nunavut as a distinct region governed by the Inuit who live there. Although it legally became a territory on April 1, 1999, every July 9 is a holiday that celebrates Nunavut. I wish all Nunavummiut, and their families, a very happy Nunavut Day!

Eid al-Adha

At sundown on July 9, Eid al-Adha, the Muslim Festival of Sacrifice begins and ends on the evening of July 13. Muslims throughout the world celebrate in honouring of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to Allah’s command. Eid al-Adha is traditionally celebrated by:

• going to the mosque for special prayers
• visiting family and friends, and
• sharing meals

I wish Eid al-Adha Mubarak to those of you celebrating this coming week.

Throughout the summer, I hope you take opportunities to:

• get some rest
• rejuvenate, and
• enjoy the warm weather