COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: July 30, 2021
This content is a message to federal offenders and their families from Correctional Service Canada's (CSC's) Commissioner.
Approximately 70 percent of inmates have received two doses of vaccine and are now more protected against COVID-19. I thank you for choosing to roll up your sleeves when the vaccine was offered to you. Our active COVID-19 cases among the inmate population have remained at zero for the past seven weeks.
Please continue to follow our infection and prevention control measures and:
- wear a mask,
- wash/sanitize your hands; and
- practice physical distancing.
The numbers show we are making progress together.
I have authorized the addition of $5 worth of minutes to your phone account, effective as of yesterday, July 29, 2021. This will help you stay in touch with your loved ones and support network.
I am pleased to report that we have renewed agreements with Native Counselling Services of Alberta to operate two healing lodges: the Stan Daniels Healing Centre and Buffalo Sage Wellness House, in Edmonton, Alberta. We have also renewed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nekaneet First Nation for the operation of the Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge near Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, for another 25 years.
August 1 is Emancipation Day. On this day in 1834, slavery was finally abolished when the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect throughout the British Empire. This past March, Members of Parliament voted unanimously to designate the day nationwide in recognition of this important event.
Diversity, inclusion and anti-racism are a priority at CSC. I have signed and have asked all CSC executives, to sign a commitment to taking action against racism and discrimination. I am committed to ensuring that CSC is a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization and this is a priority moving forward.
Did you know that CORCAN, as part of its agricultural program, maintains beekeeping operations at Collins Bay, Joyceville, and Stony Mountain Institutions? The program is one of many that provides offenders the opportunity to learn technical and essential skills that contribute to their ability to find employment upon release. Bees really are changing lives! Kudos to the offenders who are contributing to the beekeeping program and discovering interesting hobbies and vocations. If you are interested in what types of programs might be available where you are, ask a staff member!
Thank you again for keeping up health and safety measures. Your efforts are not going unnoticed and are much appreciated.