Reply from Minister Lalonde
Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services
Office of the Minister
25 Grosvenor 18th floor Toronto ON M7A Tel: 416-325-0408 MCSCS.Feedback@ontario.ca
MC-2018-391
Apr 09 2018 By e-mail
Dear Dr. McDonald and Colleagues:
Thank you for your e-mail regarding recommendations for corrections reform. I appreciate the feedback provided and the collective insight which you and your colleagues have shared.
Ontario is working hard to modernize the justice system to make it more accessible, efficient and responsive to the needs of people across the province. As part of this modernization, my ministry will continue to move forward with the changes that are necessary to transform Ontario’s correctional services to create a system that is modern, focused on prevention, community-based and people-centred.
On February 20, 2018, I introduced Bill 195, the Correctional Services Transformation Act. Given the prorogation of the Legislature on March 16, 2018, the proposed legislation was reintroduced as Bill 6, the Correctional Services Transformation Act on March 21, 2018. If passed, Bill 6 will become the foundation for the boldest transformation of our corrections system in a generation. Our proposed changes are the result of tireless work with corrections staff, partners and several comprehensive expert reviews.
Our shared goal has always been the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals within our system. This proposed legislation would result in better support and care for those in our custody, and improved outcomes for those under our supervision.
The proposed legislation, if passed, would modernize corrections by:
Setting rules around, and clearly defining, segregation by aligning with international standards and phasing out its use for vulnerable individuals.
Improving conditions of confinement by requiring minimum living standards that would apply to all adult inmates and bringing consistency to the system.
Increasing transparency and accountability by establishing an independent Inspector General to ensure compliance with the legislation and all policies.
Clearly defining via legislation, the health care services that incarcerated individuals should have access to, including treatment of disease or injury, health promotion, disease prevention, dental care, vision care, mental health and addictions care, and traditional Indigenous healing and medicines.
Better supporting rehabilitation and reintegration by requiring individualized, evidencebased assessments for every inmate.
In order to be successful in the coming years, our government has implemented the right supports, which has included more front-line staff, such as health care staff and 2,000 new correctional officers. In addition, there will be increased mental health support through the addition of new mental health nurses and enhanced staff training.
As part of our corrections transformation strategy, we are working with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) to transform health care services in correctional facilities. This will include exploring options to shift oversight and the provision of health care services to MOHLTC to improve health outcomes for correctional clients. Providing health care services for those with complex needs and ensuring continuity of care for those entering and leaving our system are key priorities.
These measures are part of our vision for a system that is built around dignity, human rights and accountability. We will continue working together with our dedicated correctional staff and partners to make this transformation a reality.
Thank you again for your e-mail.
Sincerely,
Marie-France Lalonde Minister