OTTAWA, December 4, 2006 - Today, the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety announced that Canada's new government will not continue the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) one-year tattooing pilot program.
Under the previous government, CSC began a pilot project in six of its 58 federal correctional institutions in August of 2005 to offer inmates tattoos. The cost of the one-year operation was approximately $600,000, plus prior start-up costs, which totaled approximately $350,000.
“Our government will not spend taxpayers' money on providing tattoos for convicted criminals,” said Minister Day. “Our priority is to have an effective federal corrections system that protects Canadians, while providing inmates with access to acceptable health care and treatment programs.”
Corrections Canada, in partnership with Health Canada and other outside organizations, continues to implement health and education programs to help reduce the transmission of infectious diseases within the correctional setting.
These health and education programs include immunization against Hepatitis A and B, voluntary screening for early detection and treatment of infection, and education to ensure inmates understand the risks associated with illicit tattoo practices.
Canada's new government wants to put taxpayers' money where it will count most - tackling crime and crime prevention.
Funding has already been announced to add 1,000 more Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) personnel to focus on such law enforcement priorities as tackling gun and drug smuggling and increasing border security.
The 2006 Budget has also allocated $20 million over two years for youth crime prevention with a focus on guns, gangs and drugs.
Last budget also included $26 million over two years to give victims of crime a more effective voice in the federal corrections and justice system.
For further information:
Media Relations
Public Safety and Emergency
Preparedness Canada
613-991-0657
Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2863