National News Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, July 12, 2005 - Correctional Service Canada (CSC) Commissioner Lucie McClung today announced its goal to eliminate exposure to second-hand smoke in all federal penitentiaries, including Community Correctional Centres, by January 31, 2006.

The decision follows extensive consultations with staff, unions, Citizens' Advisory Committees, key community partners, inmate advocacy groups, and offenders during 2004 and early 2005.

There is increased evidence from health care professionals about the potential negative impact of exposure to second-hand smoke. "The Health Care Advisory Committee has recommended that CSC eliminate smoking within its institutions. The exposure to smoking and second-hand smoke is a public health hazard that must be addressed," said Ms. Yvette Thériault, Chair of the Health Care Advisory Committee. "On behalf of the Committee, I would like to say how pleased I am that CSC is taking this positive step to address this issue."

"In moving this way, CSC is carrying out its broader responsibility of setting conditions for healthy correctional environments. Over the next few months, we will continue to address the many implementation matters as we adjust our daily routines in a manner consistent with both safety and health requirements in correctional settings," said Commissioner McClung.

Currently, there are designated smoking and non-smoking areas inside all federal correctional facilities. With the support of stakeholders, some institutions have already reached this goal. Indoor smoking will no longer be allowed by January 31, 2006. Smoking will be permitted in designated areas outdoors, within institutional perimeters. CSC will be consulting with Aboriginal and religious leaders to ensure proper accommodation of cultural and spiritual ceremonies.

CSC staff has access to smoking cessation products through the Public Service Health Care Plan. CSC will provide smoking cessation support for inmates for up to three months.

-30-

Christa McGregor
Correctional Service Canada (National Headquarters)
(613) 947-4815

Dennis Finlay
Correctional Service of Canada (Pacific Region)
(604) 870-2680

Cathy Stocki
Correctional Service Canada (Prairie Region)
(306) 975-5082

Holly Knowles
Correctional Service Canada (Ontario Region)
(613) 545-8210

Brigitte Gosselin
Correctional Service Canada (Quebec Region)
(450) 967-3305

Denis D'Amour
Correctional Service Canada (Atlantic Region)
(506) 851-2833