COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: December 9, 2022

COVID-19, influenza, and other viruses circulating in the community find their way into our institutions. I appreciate your cooperation in continuing to prevent spreading illness. Please:

• wear a well-fitted mask
• wash or sanitize your hands often, and
• stay up to date with your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations

If you feel unwell, please notify Health Services.

Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10, the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This declaration sets out a broad range of fundamental rights and freedoms to which all of us are entitled, including those who are imprisoned.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the rights and fundamental freedoms of every individual everywhere, without distinction, based on:

• nationality
• gender
• ethnic origin
• religion, or
• language

At CSC, this principle is entrenched in the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, which affirms that offenders retain the rights and privileges of all members of society, except those that are, as a consequence of a sentence, lawfully and necessarily removed or restricted.

CSC’s 2021–2022 Departmental Results Report was tabled in Parliament on December 2. This annual report highlights our performance during the past fiscal year, and reports to Canadians and Parliamentarians on the progress we are making in key areas such as:

• reintegration
• education
• employment, and
• training to staff on topics such as:
  • anti-racism
  • unconscious bias
  • Indigenous cultures, and
  • cultural competency

If you are interested in reading the report, please request a copy from your case worker.

I am pleased to announce that a new Canada Dental Benefit is available for families with children under 12 who do not have access to private dental insurance. Eligible families can receive up-front, direct payments, totalling up to $1,300 per child (up to $650 per year, for two years). Dental care is not only important for oral health, but overall health as well. Families can apply by calling 1-800-715-8836. Please share this information with your family or your children’s guardian.