NCJ Number
198349
Date Published
October 2002
Length
220 pages
Annotation
This publication presents an evaluation of Saskatchewan’s correctional system.
Abstract
The author explains that since the 1960’s, Saskatchewan’s correctional system has been transitioning to a rehabilitative model. An important aspect of this model is the notion that inmates are entitled to every right under the law, with the exception of freedom of movement, of course. This publication presents an evaluation of the inmate services and conditions of custody in Saskatchewan’s correctional facilities to ensure that every effort is made to humanely house and rehabilitate inmates. The review process addressed 13 areas that are believed to carry the most impact for inmate services and conditions of custody. These areas are bed space, inmate living conditions, inmate property control, programming, case management, medical services, suicide and self-injury response, discipline, segregation, remand inmate care, services for aboriginal inmates, staff training, and a look at the management of the Regina Correctional Centre in Saskatchewan. Bed space refers to how many inmates can safely and effectively be housed in any one facility. Inmate living conditions refer to aspects of everyday living, such as the quality of food and inmate safety. Inmate property control refers to the degree to which inmates are in possession of their own property. Programming concerns the degree to which services are offered toward the rehabilitation of inmates. Proper case management ensures that the rehabilitation and reintegration needs of each inmate are effectively met while they are incarcerated. Meeting the medical needs of every inmate is challenging for correctional facilities, as is responding to inmates who may attempt suicide or otherwise harm themselves. Discipline plays an important role in ensuring inmate safety but must be carried out with full regard to basic human rights. Segregation refers to solitary confinement, which is often used as a discipline measure for unruly inmates. Remand inmates are those inmates who have been charged with a crime but have not yet been tried or convicted. Services for aboriginal inmates are an important component of correctional services in Saskatchewan given the fact that in 1999 these inmates composed 76 percent of the inmate population. Finally, staff training is of paramount importance to a correctional system that strives to rehabilitate inmates while also respecting their rights as citizens. Bibliography