November 18, 2004
Press Release
Office of the Correctional Investigator
Annual Report 2003-2004
Progress; yet significant issues related
to Health Care, Aboriginals and Women remain unaddressed
The 31st Annual Report was tabled in Parliament by the
Minister today. "It is my privilege," said Mr. Howard Sapers,
"to present my first report as Correctional Investigator. I look
forward to working with the Commissioner of Corrections as the Service
implements necessary changes and being advised of the Minister of Public
Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada position on the significant
issues identified for her attention".
Annual Report recommendations have traditionally been directed towards
the Commissioner of Corrections. There are four recommendations in this
year's report directed to the Minister. These recommendations, Mr. Sapers
states "represent issues of long-standing concern, with significant
implications to the offender population". The recommendations
address Aboriginal Corrections, Women Offenders, Infectious Diseases and
Security Classification. A detailing of those recommendations is
attached.
The report notes that "although we remain at odds on the appropriate
resolution of some key areas associated with Health Care, Women and
Aboriginal Offenders, the Service has initiated action on a number of
issues". Policy and operational changes are underway in the areas of
Investigations, Use of Force, Allegations of Harassment and Staff
Misconduct. The Service has also undertaken to continue its review of
issues associated with Younger Offenders, Inmate Grievance Procedure,
Inmate Injuries and Institutional Violence.
"Corrections is a difficult and at times thankless business, yet it
is a key element of our criminal justice system," Sapers noted.
"Independent over-sight is an essential element of an open and
accountable correctional process. Canadians expect a system that provides
safe, humane custody which is respectful of human rights and supports the
offenders' successful reintegration into society. I look forward to
working with the Correctional Service and our other criminal justice
partners towards meeting that expectation".
This year's Annual Report focuses on :
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Aboriginal and Women Offenders
-
Timely Program Access and Case Preparation
-
Institution Violence, Inmate Injuries and Investigations
-
Provision of Health Care Services
-
Offender Redress Procedures
The Correctional Service's response to the Office's recommendations is
appended to the Annual Report.
The Correctional Investigator is mandated under Part III of the
Corrections and Conditional Release Act as an Ombudsman for Federal
Offenders.
A press briefing will be held at the Office to the Correctional
Investigator, 60 Queen St., 11th Floor on Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 10:30 a.m. For further information, please contact the Office at (613) 990-2692.
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