Commissioner's update for correctional employees: April 6, 2023

Over the past week, we have fully implemented the return-to-office directive. I know it has been an adjustment for many staff. I am grateful for your continued:

• commitment
• dedication, and
• support

as we return to the workplace. 

We have an evergreen FAQ page on the Hub with information about the return-to-office directive. You can check it regularly for updates.

• Frequently asked questions: Hybrid work model (internal resource only)

World Health Day and accreditation

World Health Day, on April 7, raises awareness of health issues that affect people around the world. As part of our ongoing commitment to deliver quality safe health services to individuals in our care, CSC is once again taking part in an accreditation process, which takes place every four years.  

Health Services staff will work with surveyors from Accreditation Canada to review CSC’s health services to identify what we are doing well and where we can improve. Surveys will take place between April and June 2023. 

Thank you to all health services staff for your ongoing work and for the preparation toward this important process. 

Updated guidance documents for COVID-19 

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, the COVID-19 Integrated Risk Management Framework was decommissioned on March 28. In line with this change, we are reviewing our COVID-19 resources and are working to update documents accordingly. 

Up to date documentation and guidance is available to staff on the Hub.

Creating Choices

The month of April marks 33 years since the Creating Choices: The Report of the Task Force on Federally Sentenced Women was published. This ground-breaking report fundamentally changed women’s corrections in Canada. It provided a clearer understanding of the rehabilitation needs of incarcerated women. It is recognized as a model of excellence around the world.

The report’s five principles are still at the heart of programming for incarcerated women today:

• empowerment
• meaningful and responsible choices
• respect and dignity
• supportive environment
• shared responsibility

I wish to recognize and thank employees who work with women offenders, and who see the impact of this report every day. Your efforts to reinforce the principles of Creating Choices in your work ensure the unique needs of incarcerated women are met. 

Read the full report:  

• Creating Choices

Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy

CSC has revitalized the Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy in response to recommendations from the 2021 inquest into the death in custody of an Inuk offender. 

Anijaarniq refers to traditional Inuit wayfinding, a morning practice where Inuit observe weather, wind, and stars to plan for the coming day. The Strategy’s vision is for Inuit to have the support and resources they need to return and remain in their communities as contributing members of their families and society.

Each of the four founding principles of the Strategy highlights the importance of working together with:

• CSC staff
• Elders
• Inuit organizations and community leaders

for the reintegration of federally incarcerated Inuit. 

Read more about the strategy:

• Anijaarniq Holistic Inuit Strategy

Sikh Heritage Month

the rich culture and history of the Sikh community. Sikh Canadians have made, and continue to make, significant:

• social
• economic
• political, and
• cultural

contributions to communities across the country. They are helping to build a more inclusive Canada.

During the month, make time to learn more about and celebrate Sikh history and culture. 

• Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada: Sikhs in Canada

This weekend:

• Jews
• Christians, and
• Muslims

will celebrate holy days at the same time. Jewish Passover, which began at sundown Wednesday, April 5, ends at sundown Thursday, April 13. Christians celebrate Easter from Friday, April 7 to Sunday, April 9. These special holidays are happening during Islam's holy month of Ramadan, which began at sundown on March 22 and ends at sundown on April 21.

Easter and Passover often coincide, but this is the second year in a row that the three religions celebrate at the same time. Usually, it only happens every 33 years. Chag Pesach sameach! Happy Easter! Ramadan Mubarak!