COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: October 29, 2021

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

Over the last 20 months, we have had to adapt to many changes, such as:

We know that these practices are necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We now know more about how the virus spreads, changes, and adapts over time to become more transmissible. Researchers around the world studied the virus and worked together to create vaccines that have helped keep us from becoming seriously ill or dying from COVID-19.

I am pleased that almost 80% of inmates are now fully vaccinated. Thank you to those who got vaccinated. For those who haven’t, it is not too late. You can get the vaccine at any time; just speak to Health Services. I believe we can get closer to 100%! Public servants, including CSC employees, are now required to be fully vaccinated. Together, this will help keep everyone who lives or works in our institutions safe. I also want to let you know that we currently have zero cases of COVID-19 cases among federal inmates. Cases have remained minimal as we saw vaccination rates increase. Vaccines truly work!

As you may know, on October 26, a new federal Cabinet was sworn in. The Honourable Marco Mendicino is the new Minister of Public Safety. He is responsible for the Public Safety portfolio, including CSC.

November 1 to 5 is Diversity Week, which is a good opportunity to learn and appreciate what makes us unique individuals. CSC is an organization whose staff and inmates are of varying:

Appreciating our diversity helps promote understanding and inclusion. This includes referring to people by their chosen pronouns:

Please respect their wishes, as this is linked to a person’s identity.

I want to wish a happy Diwali to those of you celebrating the festival of lights on Thursday, November 4. Diwali is a holiday recognized by many of Sikh, Hindu, or Jain faiths around the world. Take the opportunity to speak with your family and friends, and enjoy a virtual lighting of candles.

The Remembrance Day poppy turns 100! The red poppy was adopted in 1921 as the flower of remembrance to raise money for First World War Veterans. Every year, the Legion’s poppy campaign raises funds to:

Today, we still wear a poppy to honour Veterans past and present for proudly serving our country and keeping us safe and free. Lest we forget on November 11.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation.

 

Nothing is impossible, the word itself says "I’m possible"!

Audrey Hepburn

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