COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: May 27, 2022

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

Last weekend, many cities in:

• Ontario
• Quebec, and
• New Brunswick

were impacted by a severe storm. Our thoughts are with those who were and continue to be impacted by this storm. There were some deaths reported, and others lost power and/or experienced damage to their property. Thankfully, there was no reported damage to our institutions in those provinces.

In terms of a COVID-19 update, I am pleased that cases of COVID-19 among our inmate population continue to decrease. This is in large part thanks to efforts at our institutions, both my staff and yourself. It is important that we keep up with our health and safety protocols to limit the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in our institutions. 

Please remember to:

• get vaccinated/boosted
• report any symptoms to health services

On Monday, May 30, a new national menu will be introduced in men’s institutions. Following consultation, it was updated to include a variety of new menu items. The national menu meets Canada’s Food Guide recommendations and nutritional requirements, and is supported by a registered dietitian. Thanks to all of you who provided comments on the menu last year. Your comments and feedback were used to develop this new menu. If you wish to discuss your medical nutritional needs with a dietitian, please speak with Health Services or put in a request to the dietitian.

June is National Indigenous History Month. This is an opportunity to recognize the:

• rich history
• heritage
• resilience, and
• diversity

of the Indigenous communities across Canada. Take this opportunity to speak with:

• Elders
• Indigenous staff, and
• offenders

to learn about the culture and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This is a good way to build a deeper understanding and build stronger relationships.

We are fortunate in Canada to be a nation assembled by people from many countries. Throughout the year, we recognize the many cultures that make up our country. June is also Filipino, Italian, and Portuguese Heritage Months. These communities have contributed to all areas of society, enriching it with their:

• languages
• food
• traditions, and
• culture

Let us celebrate how Filipino, Italian, and Portuguese Canadians continue to play a significant role in creating a:

• vibrant
• diverse
• inclusive, and
• strong

society.