Commissioner's update for correctional employees: June 16, 2023

Today marks a milestone in Canada’s history as our population is set to reach 40 million. According to Statistics Canada’s population clock, which models Canada’s population changes in real time, we’ll reach this number just before 3:00 p.m.

• Canada's population clock (real-time model)

This historic number reflects our country’s vitality and ability to welcome new citizens. Canada is in a period of rapid population growth similar to the migration waves of the 20th century or the baby boom after WWII. This milestone offers an important time to reflect on our values and welcoming people who define a diverse and inclusive Canada.

National Public Service Week

Today wraps up National Public Service Week which, was an opportunity to recognize the important work of all federal public servants. Your commitment to the Canadian public is unparalleled as you work to keep communities safe and assist offenders who need support. Thank you for your dedication and tireless work. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. 

National Indigenous Peoples Day 

Wednesday, June 21, is National Indigenous Peoples Day. I encourage you to use the day as an opportunity to learn something new about First Nations, Métis and Inuit. The Indigenous Initiatives Directorate will host virtual events between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. (EDT) on that day. Three Elders will offer teachings.

• 11 a.m. (EDT) Male Teachings with Elder Robert Ballantyne
• 12 p.m. (EDT) Female Teachings with Elder Shirley Ivanauskas-Ward
• 1 p.m. (EDT) Traditional Inuit teachings and Sharing Circle with Elder Sarah Ponniuk

All are welcome to join via zoom

Central Agency visit to Collins Bay Institution

CSC hosted Central Agency delegates on June 8 on a visit to Collins Bay Institution. Representatives from:

• the Privy Council Office
• Treasury Board Secretariat, and
• the Department of Finance

toured the institution to gain a stronger understanding of the critical work done daily at CSC institutions.

Our organization welcomed the opportunity to provide insight and built a broader knowledge of the complex issues and professionalism exhibited at CSC. Thank you to those who facilitated this visit.

Regional Deputy Commissioner (RDC) Alessandria Page retiring

I would like to recognize Alessandria Page who is retiring after nearly 30 years of service to CSC. Alessandria has served as the Regional Deputy Commissioner for the Quebec Region since 2017. During her career, she held a variety of managerial positions, including:

• Unit Manager
• Assistant Warden Correctional Programs
• Assistant Warden Interventions, and
• Deputy Warden

In 2012, she received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal for significant contribution to Canada. She is also the recipient of the Corrections Exemplary Service Medal. Thank you, Alessandria, for your dedication and contribution to CSC.

Sunday is Father’s Day. I want to thank all the fathers and father figures at CSC who play an important role in someone’s life. I also want to share my appreciation for fathers who support a CSC employee.