News Releases

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CORRECTIONAL SERVICE OF CANADA TO IMPLEMENT TOTAL SMOKING BAN AT ALL FEDERAL CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES

OTTAWA, June 27, 2007 - The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) announced to staff yesterday that it will move to a total smoking ban by April 30, 2008 to improve health and safety in all operational units. This total ban will apply to all federal correctional facilities. An indoor smoking ban has been in place since January 31, 2006.

"CSC is taking this step to ensure improved safety in all of its operational units, and to provide a healthy working and living environment for staff, offenders, volunteers, visitors and contractors" said Keith Coulter, CSC's Commissioner. "It is now clear that this action is needed to eliminate exposure to second hand smoke" added Mr. Coulter.

Prior to the decision to move to a total smoking ban, CSC recently completed consultations on this issue with unions, staff, partners and inmate welfare committees.

CSC is currently developing implementation plans for the total smoking ban. Staff will have access to educational and awareness material and to cessation aids through their medical coverage, and CSC will offer assistance to offenders who wish to quit smoking before the ban. Appropriate arrangements will be made for Aboriginal and other offenders whose religious and spiritual practices could be affected by the total ban.

"A consistent ban that applies equally to all institutions is the most equitable and appropriate way to create a healthy and smoke-free environment for all living and working inside CSC facilities," concluded Mr. Coulter.

Most provinces now have a total smoking ban in their detention facilities.

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For further information contact:

Guy Campeau (613) 947-3372 or (613) 371-2257
Media Relations, National Headquarters (Ottawa)
Correctional Service of Canada