COVID-19 update for correctional employees: December 23, 2022
This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC's Commissioner.
As 2022 draws to a close, I want to offer you my holiday wishes and reflections.
I have had the privilege to serve as Commissioner for over four years, and I am very proud of what we continue to accomplish as an organization. Our employees are the backbone of CSC, working hard to maintain our operations and rehabilitate individuals in our care and custody. Our volunteers donate their valuable time in a variety of capacities and our partners within government and the private sector support our mission and mandate, and help us keep Canadians safe. I am truly thankful for everyone’s dedication and commitment.
Our team is remarkably creative. We are continuously finding new and innovative ways to strengthen and modernize federal corrections. Respect, inclusion and diversity continue to be focus areas for us. This diversity helps us reflect the great country we serve, and helps those in our care maintain a sense of connection with others through engaging programs and community participation.
I hope you recognize the incredible difference you make in the lives of many across Canada. Your integrity and professionalism are outstanding. You band together, answer the call to service, and meet a myriad of challenges head on daily. Know that I appreciate the personal sacrifices you make. Many of you work evenings, weekends, and holidays, including during this holiday season. I thank you for everything you do. Please take time to connect with others and get some well-deserved rest.
Holiday Season
This is a festive time for many cultures. Hannukah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is December 18 to December 26 this year. Yule, a Pagan festival celebrating the winter solstice, is from December 21 to January 1. Canadians of Christian faith celebrate Christmas on December 25. African Canadian families will celebrate Kwanzaa from December 26 to January 1. Many Japanese Canadian families celebrate Ōmisoka, the last day of the year.
I wish you all a happy and festive holiday season – and all the best for a healthy and productive New Year in 2023!
Also, please recognize that the holidays can also be a time when individuals experience high levels of stress due to various personal and professional challenges. If you feel overwhelmed or if you would like to find out more about how to manage your mental health, Employee Assistance Program referral agents offer confidential and non-judgemental support through Lifeworks, which is available to you and your family members. You are encouraged to reach out to the:
The annual influenza (flu) vaccination is an effective way to prevent getting seriously sick with the flu. A new flu vaccine is developed every year because the virus changes and the previous year’s vaccine becomes less effective. You are encouraged to get the flu shot every fall, and it is not too late to do so. Looking after your health can help your family members and colleagues stay healthy. Find pharmacies and clinics in your area:
Canadian Families and Corrections Network Turns 30
This year, the Canadian Families and Corrections Network (CFCN) is celebrating its 30th anniversary! As a longstanding and respected CSC partner, the CFCN offers numerous services and resources in institutions and in our communities to assist those in custody connect with family and friends. The CFCN offers the Dad HERO program, resiliency sessions, letter writing kits and more.
Recently, the CFCN’s Executive Director, Louise Leonardi, was awarded the Ed McIsaac Human Rights in Corrections Award, presented by the Office of the Correctional Investigator. This award is for the exemplary commitment and contribution to social justice and the advancement of human rights and correctional practices in Canada. If your institution is interested in the CFCN’s services, please contact:
Citation and Commendation Pins Redesigned
I am pleased to announce the redesign of two of our service pins: the Citation for Bravery and the Commissioner’s Commendation. These bar-shaped awards are now similar in size and design to those of other government organizations, such as the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. They can be worn on both our ceremonial uniform and our work uniform (CX/PW/CM). The original round pin will still be awarded to non-uniformed staff members.
CORCAN Winter Highlight
You can still order various items made by Indigenous offenders at Warkworth Institution and Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge from CORCAN’s annual Winter Highlight. These items produced through the offender employment and employability program allow Indigenous offenders to gain skills while participating in meaningful activities that contribute to their reintegration. You can browse the virtual space for gift ideas for yourself or others, and email the CORCAN sales team to place your order, which can be shipped anywhere in the country.
Thanks again for everything you do. I extend a special thanks to those who will be working over the holidays.
Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.
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