Policy Bulletin

Policy Bulletin 574

Why was the policy changed?

This policy has been revised to add new responsibilities and procedures and to provide direction following the death of an inmate with regard to communications, funeral arrangements, financial responsibilities and fingerprinting.

What has changed?

The following changes have been made: 

  • the Authorities now include the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
  • the “Purpose” section has been amended and now reads: “To provide direction following the death of an inmate, with respect to communications, funeral arrangements, financial responsibilities and fingerprinting”
  • the “Application” section has been amended and now reads: “Applies to all staff and spiritual leaders working in the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) institutions, including Community Correctional Centres (CCC)”
  • the policy has been clarified with respect to who it applies to
  • procedures have now been delineated between actions required immediately and those required in a timely manner
  • responsibilities have been added for the Assistant Commissioner, Correctional Operations and Programs, the Regional Deputy Commissioner and the Institutional Head/District Director
  • the Regional Administrator, Communications and Executive Services (RACES), has been identified as the key point of contact for the sharing of information with families in the event of deaths in custody, after the initial notification has been completed at the institutional level
  • a procedure has been added requiring the Institutional Head/District Director to send a letter of condolence to the inmate’s emergency contact or next of kin that contains the coordinates of the RACES
  • Annex A provides additional cross-references and definitions of emergency contact, personal representative and next of kin.

How was it developed?

This policy was updated by the Security Branch in collaboration with the Offender Programs and Reintegration Branch, the Communications and Engagement Sector, the Incident Investigations Branch, the Access to Information and Privacy Division, the Strategic Policy Division and Legal Services. General consultations were also held.

Accountability?

The Assistant Commissioner, Correctional Operations and Programs, Regional Deputy Commissioners, Regional Administrators, Communications and Executive Services, Institutional Heads and District Directors are responsible for ensuring compliance with this CD. Additional staff responsibilities are included in the directive.

Who will be affected by the policy?

Staff working with inmates in institutions, including Community Correctional Centres.

For more information

To learn about upcoming or ongoing consultations on proposed federal regulations, visit the Canada Gazette and Consulting with Canadians websites.