I, like some of you, started my corrections career when the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) was known as the Canadian Penitentiary Service. I remember the transition to the new name and the introduction of new badges and uniforms. I look back on the last 30 years with an enormous amount of pride in what we have achieved as an organization, and with fondness and respect for the many colleagues who I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with over the years.

The delivery of successful correctional services is based on strong teamwork and an integrated approach. We rely on each other’s goodwill and professionalism as we work to rehabilitate offenders and ensure their safe reintegration back into our communities. Whether it’s the correctional officer performing rounds in an institution or a parole officer supervising an offender in the community, our safety and well-being depends on co-operation and collaboration.

Our team is bolstered by the strong partnerships we have forged with volunteers, Citizen Advisory Committees and other community partners and stakeholders. Without strong ties to the communities, we cannot effectively deliver on our mandate to enhance public safety.

It is because of the professionalism of our colleagues – and the many partnerships we have created – that I can say with pride that we have an incredible team of people who are principled and committed to carrying out their duties with integrity. Each of you regularly goes the extra mile to safeguard public safety across the country. The results speak for themselves.

During the past 30 years, we have made many strides in the field of corrections.

On a regular basis, correctional systems from around the world seek out our expertise and advice. Our colleagues have travelled the world to assist countries like Haiti, Kosovo and Afghanistan rebuild or establish their own correctional systems.

We are now working to redefine and enhance our approach to corrections in several different areas. The ongoing Transformation Agenda will enhance our ability to effectively address the challenges we face, and strengthen our contribution to public safety.

It’s an exciting time to be working in corrections. I know the pace of change may be dizzying, but I am confident that the Transformation Agenda will lead to even greater achievements in the years ahead and provide exciting opportunities for staff.

I encourage each of you to take time and participate in some of the many 30^th anniversary events taking place over the course of the year and to read this issue of Let’s Talk. For those of you who are, like me, veterans of the Service, it will provide an opportunity to relive some of our shared history. For those of you who are new to the Service, it will provide some insight into the path CSC has already travelled. As we move forward on our journey, it is important to remember who we are and where we’ve come from.