The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) will review a decade-long assessment by the Office of the Correctional Investigator (OCI), as its commissioner said national changes may not yet consistently shape prison conditions. The agency announced its review on Oct. 26.
Commissioner Talal Dakalbab said the OCI’s 53rd annual report covers federal prison conditions, health services, Indigenous and women’s corrections, and efforts to prepare people for release. He said external review helps CSC assess whether its policies are reflected in the experiences of people in custody.
CSC cited operational changes that include Structured Intervention Units, body-scanning technology, revised complaints and grievance procedures, and closer monitoring of dry-cell placements. The agency said it has strengthened health and mental health services, while expanding substance-use treatment and harm reduction.
CSC said the 10-year review also recognizes work involving digital education, Indigenous leadership and Pathways initiatives, as well as updated health services and responses to sexual coercion and violence.
CSC said it is partnering with Indigenous communities and organizations to widen access to Healing Lodges, section 84 release planning, Elders and culturally responsive interventions as part of its effort to address Indigenous overrepresentation. The agency said these partnerships can bring Indigenous perspectives into both policy and the daily experience of people in custody.
The statement also cited women-centred and trauma-informed practices, targeted strategies for Black offenders and people serving life sentences, digital learning, and stronger community partnerships. CSC said these efforts are intended to help people maintain support as they prepare to return to the community.
For serious incidents and deaths in custody, CSC described steps to improve investigations, provide family liaison support, strengthen suicide prevention and ensure corrective actions are carried out. Dakalbab thanked Interim Correctional Investigator Valerie Phillips for her work during the OCI’s transition and welcomed David Paradiso as Correctional Investigator.
CSC said it will continue assessing the report and working with the OCI. Dakalbab said the agency will draw on evidence, professional expertise and the experiences of people affected by the correctional system as it works on policies and outcomes.
