Commissioner's Message

In 2009, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is proudly celebrating the 30th anniversary of its crest, the renaming of the organization, and a long and distinguished history of contributing to enhancing public safety for Canadians.

Thirty years ago, the then-Solicitor General sent a letter to the Treasury Board asking permission to amend the Penitentiary Act to reflect the renaming of the organization from the Canadian Penitentiary Service to the Correctional Service of Canada.  Around the same time, the process to design a crest for CSC was initiated. The crest was unveiled at the official opening of Kent Institution in 1979 after having been formally approved by Queen Elizabeth II.  Since this time, our crest has come to embody our honour, our pride and our contribution to public safety.

Over the period from April 2009 to March 2010, CSC will celebrate its past in many ways.  We will take the time to acknowledge our accomplishments and to say “thank you” to all the stakeholders who have contributed in many and varied ways to helping us fulfill our mandate.

“Thank you” to our partners and stakeholders such as the National Associations Active in Criminal Justice (which is comprised of societies and associations such as Elizabeth Fry, John Howard and St. Leonard’s) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.  We value the exchange of ideas and information, the  opportunities for dialogue, and our collaboration on issues and initiatives.

“Thank you” to over 9,000 volunteers who by selflessly assisting offenders with their reintegration efforts, liaising with community partners, and supporting victims and families, have helped thousands of offenders rebuild their lives.

“Thank you” to all the Citizen Advisory Committee members who are an important link between CSC and the community. You help build public understanding and support for CSC’s role in community safety and provide us with an invaluable community perspective on operational and policy decisions.

CSC will work diligently to meet its federal corrections challenges this year and in the future.  As we move forward with the CSC Transformation Agenda, we look forward to your continuing support and commitment.  Together we will help make communities safer for Canadians.