Statement from Minister Goodale on the death of Matthew Hines

Statement

Ottawa, August 24, 2016

My thoughts are with Mr. Hines’ family, who lost a loved one in very difficult circumstances. They deserve our compassion and they deserve answers.

I cannot comment on the specifics of this incident while authorities continue to examine it, but let me be clear that there can be no tolerance for inappropriate use of force or other serious misconduct. Correctional staff have difficult jobs, but any allegation of inappropriate behavior must be thoroughly and transparently investigated, and the appropriate consequences must follow.

Our government is focused on ensuring that federal correctional institutions provide a safe and secure environment that is conducive to inmate rehabilitation, staff safety and the protection of the public.

In that context, we must rely heavily on the skill and judgment of properly trained staff to defuse tough situations.

In this case—and all cases—the family and all Canadians deserve to know what happened and why.

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Information:

Scott Bardsley
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
613-998-5681

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
(613) 991-0657

Hon. Ralph Goodale Public Safety Canada Government and Politics