COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: April 24, 2020
This content is a message to federal offenders and their families from Correctional Service Canada's (CSC’s) Commissioner.
I am writing to provide a weekly update on the COVID-19 situation. We have been working closely with public health to ensure we conduct testing of inmates, as needed, on a priority basis. While there are some positive cases in our institutions across the country, the overall rate of confirmed COVID-19 cases remains at slightly over 1% of the total inmate population.
Cases can range from mild to severe. We have had inmates recover from COVID-19 while others can experience more severe symptoms. Sadly, an inmate of Mission Institution in British Columbia died in hospital last week due to complications from the virus. This is the first - and hopefully only - death of an inmate in our custody. I want you to know that we are doing everything in our power to put measures in place to protect you.
All CSC workers in our institutions are provided with masks and we continue to train everyone on how to wear them. This is an added protection measure. Given growing evidence that asymptomatic people can transmit the virus, starting this week, all inmates are also being given masks to wear. Masks can help protect you. It is important that you wear your mask and continue washing your hands before handling it.
As you know, visits continue to be cancelled at all federal institutions across the country and we understand the impact of this situation. In places where we have had to modify routines or lock down, we are making sure everyone gets time out of their cells. It is important that you continue reaching out to others that can support you. Please remember that you can reach out to your inmate committee chair or Citizen Advisory Committee member by phone as well. They are there to listen if you need to talk.
As you know, according to CD 860 on Offender Money, you can transfer money from your savings account to your current account up to four times a fiscal year, and the amount cannot exceed $750 per year. Recognizing the impact that some of the measures have had on the inmate population, I am authorizing an increase from $750 to $850 for the remainder of this year. This increase will provide you with additional flexibility.
I would also like to remind you to continue physical distancing, avoid gathering in groups, and continue washing your hands and avoid touching your face as prevention measures. You all have a role to play in minimizing the spread.
I have received letters about hand sanitizer and soap. We continue to send supplies to all institutions across the country on an ongoing basis. It is important that you have access to these and I have spoken to each region to ensure we continuously replenish these supplies - they are key to practicing good hygiene.
Thank you for your cooperation. I appreciate it. Stay safe and well.
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