COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: May 21, 2021

This content is a message to federal offenders and their families from Correctional Service Canada's (CSC’s) Commissioner.

I wanted to give you a COVID-19 update. There are currently seven active cases in our institutions: two at Donnacona Institution (Maximum) in Quebec, three at Saskatchewan Penitentiary (Medium) in Saskatchewan and two at Bowden Institution (Medium/Minimum) in Alberta. I am happy to see the number of cases declining, and I know that is thanks to your efforts in following our health and safety measures to limit the spread of the virus in the institutions.

We will soon be offering vaccine clinics to provide second doses of the Moderna vaccine to all inmates. Everyone needs two doses of the vaccine in order to have optimum protection against COVID-19.

Currently, 73% of the inmate population has received at least their first dose. This is great – thank you for doing your part. We are hoping for an even higher vaccination rate. If you had previously declined to be vaccinated, it is not too late. Please speak to Health Services. They can provide more information and work to address any concerns you may have. Immunization helps to protect you and your loved ones, and the more people who are vaccinated, the safer it will be to begin lifting restrictions sooner. I encourage everyone to get vaccinated.

We have also started our planning to reinstate activities and routines, as we see community transmission rates starting to decline and vaccination rates increasing. We are working collaboratively with public health to make sure we do this right and work to keep everyone as safe as possible. I will keep you posted as we know more.

As we continue to honour Asian Heritage Month, it is important to recognize the many achievements of individuals of Asian descent. This year’s theme is Recognition, Resilience, and Resolve, and it describes the strong spirit of peoples and communities of Asian descent. Let’s keep commemorating all people of Asian descent and the Asian diversity of cultures. To the offenders of Asian descent in our care, I encourage you to celebrate your rich heritage, not just this month, but throughout the year.

I have heard positive feedback on our vaccination campaign from many of you and your families. Thank you for taking time to write to me. I appreciate hearing your stories and what’s working well. I am also grateful for your efforts in keeping up with our measures of wearing your mask, staying two metres apart, and washing/sanitizing your hands often. Even when vaccinated, layers of protection continue to be key.