Minister's Message

I am proud to extend my personal heartfelt congratulations to the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) on its 30th anniversary.

Since the renaming of the organization in 1979, which had previously seen the amalgamation of the Canadian Penitentiary Service and the National Parole Service, the Correctional Service of Canada has established its own distinguished tradition of contributing to enhancing public safety for Canadians.

The Correctional Service of Canada can be proud of its achievements over the past 30 years. The organization has helped build a safer Canada by assisting eligible offenders through its rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. Some of its achievements over the years have included improved support for families and victims, the special needs of women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit offenders, and offenders with mental health problems.

As the profile of our offender population changes, we have shown the capacity to adapt to new challenges – and this is something we must continue to do. As part of its Transformation Agenda, the Correctional Service of Canada is undergoing significant operational changes to respond to this Government’s commitment to tackling crime and making our communities safer. This includes strengthening accountability, eliminating drugs from our corrections facilities, and adjusting to accommodate the needs of inmates with mental health issues.

I want to acknowledge the contributions of the staff, volunteers, community partners and stakeholders. Their ongoing support, dedication and expertise have been the pillars of this organization. These attributes are especially critical in helping the Service deliver on its priorities.

On behalf of this Government, I congratulate the Correctional Service of Canada on its 30th anniversary and ongoing commitment to the safety of all Canadians.

Hon. Peter Van Loan
Minister of Public Safety