News Releases

Ontario Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

INMATES RETURN TO WORK

Joyceville, ON, November 10, 2009 - Inmates at Joyceville Institution returned to work and correctional programs this morning. The inmate action which began on October 29, 2009 was peacful in nature and there were no reported injuries to staff or inmates as a result of the work refusal.

Representatives from the management team met with the inmate committee to discuss the reasons for the work refusal. On October 29, 2009 the inmate committee advised management 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. Management informed the inmate committee that CSC will continue to maintain its current policy with respect to the total smoking ban at this time.

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 within the institution remains of paramount concern and the Joyceville Institutional management worked with the Inmate Committee to ensure the inmates returned to work.

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For more information, media representatives may contact:

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