POLICY BULLETIN

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Commissioner's Directive 860 - Inmate's Money

Clarification regarding the payment of costs for special events using the funds in the savings account

It has been brought to our attention that some institutions authorize the payment of costs for special events (e.g. family day) using the funds in the inmate's savings account, as per paragraph 22 of CD 860 - Inmate's Money. Since this practice constitutes a misinterpretation of the policy and leads to an incorrect application of paragraph 22, some clarifications are required.

According to subsection 111 (2) of the Correctional and Conditional Release Regulations, CSC shall establish and administer an Inmate Trust Fund for every inmate, which will comprise two separate accounts, the current account and the savings account. The current account can be used for the inmate's everyday expenditures, such as canteen items, hobby craft, temporary absences and family assistance (paragraph 19 of CD 860).

The savings account provides a safety net for inmates for important or essential costs and to ensure that they have sufficient funds for their future release in the community. The name of this account describes perfectly its purpose; it is not for regular withdrawals or purchases, but rather to save money to ensure the inmate's successful reintegration. However, the policy does provide the possibility of withdrawals above the authorized limit of $500 per year, for specific reasons and on a case by case basis.

Paragraph 19 g of CD 860 allows inmates to use their current account to pay the costs associated with community celebrations, which include "Family Related Days".

Paragraph 22 of CD 860, which focuses on "family related reasons", stipulates that funds can be sent outside to support the inmate's family in the community, in regards to the numerous financial responsibilities. As an example, the inmate may want to participate in the education of his/her children and assist in paying for their tuition, or he/she could also assist in paying for their rent or other family requirements in the community.

Therefore, in accordance with CSC policy, costs for family related days, special events and any other types of celebrations involving community members shall be paid using only the inmate's current account.

Contacts:

• Sylvie Carrier
• Project Officer
• (613) 943-9575
• carriersy@csc-scc.gc.ca

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