News Releases

Ontario Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Inmate Work Refusal

Joyceville, ON, October 29, 2009 – Inmates at Joyceville Institution refused to report for work and correctional programs this morning. Representatives from the management team met with the inmate committee to discuss the reasons for the work refusal. The Inmate Committee advised that as a result of the recent federal court decision to lift the total smoking ban in federal institutions, the inmate population wanted to purchase tobacco and smoke outside.

The management team at Joyceville Institution advised the Inmate Committee that the court has provided for a period of review and that CSC will be appealing the court ruling. At this time, regulations related to the smoking ban and possesson of smoking-related items will remain in effect in all federal institutions across Canada.

The safety and security of our institutions remains of paramount concern. There have been no reported injuries to staff or offenders as a result of this work refusal. With the exception of the work refusal, Joyceville Institution is operating on a normal routine.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

Michele Vermette
A/Assistant Warden Management Services
Joyceville Institution
Correctional Service of Canada
(613) 536- 6410