Released on November 27, 2002
Corrections and Public Safety Minister Andrew Thomson today received theOmbudsman's special report on adult corrections, Inmate Services and
Conditions of Custody in Saskatchewan Correctional Centres.
The Ombudsman's review began in 1999 and during the review corrections
officials worked co-operatively with the Ombudsman's staff.
"I would like to acknowledge the full co-operation of department officials
in working with the Ombudsman, which has allowed for an informed discussion
on the issues and for changes and improvements to be made during the course
of the review," Thomson said.
Thomson noted that the provincial government has increased spending on
corrections by 35 per cent since 1998-99 ($44 million to $59
million). "Our government will continue to work on dealing with the
changing demands on the correctional system, while keeping in mind public
priorities and the various ongoing pressures on the provincial treasury,"
he added.
"Keeping Saskatchewan communities safe requires a corrections approach that
balances necessary supervision and controls with effective interventions
that help reintegrate people back into the community," Thomson said.
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For more information, contact:
Bill Derby
Corrections and Public Safety
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-5883