Two inmates have filed a lawsuit against Canada’s Correctional Service alleging it failed to provide them with rehabilitation programs. By law, the service is required to provide such programs. The government’s own website proclaims “Rehabilitation starts on day one.”
Canada has been considered a leader in rehabilitation for offenders, but recently prison ombudsman, Howard Sapers has criticized the Canadian government for failing to spend most of its budget for prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The inmates in this civil suit say they have not had access to rehabilitation programs in British Columbia because they don’t qualify or because of long waiting lists. Not having had rehabilitation reduces their chances of early release on parole.
The inmates are asking a judge to order the service be provided to them. Correctional Service Canada says it would be inappropriate to comment on the case while it is before the courts.
For reasons beyond our control, and for an undetermined period of time, our comment section is now closed. However, our social networks remain open to your contributions.