Terms of Reference

The panel has reviewed CSC’s 2007-2008 Report on Plans and Priorities and other relevant CSC documents. It has visited CSC facilities and has also consulted with stakeholders, justice experts, CSC staff and the general public. Based on this review, the panel has provided the Minister of Public Safety with an independent assessment of CSC’s contributions to public safety, and advice on how they might be strengthened.

The panel has provided the Minister of Public Safety with advice on:

• The availability and effectiveness of rehabilitation programming and support mechanisms in institutions and in the community post release, including the impact on recidivism and any legal framework issues;

• The availability and effectiveness of programs and services for Aboriginal offenders;

• Review the recommendations made in the report Moving Forward with Women’s Corrections;

• The availability and effectiveness of mental health programs and services in institutions and in communities;

• The availability and effectiveness of work programs, including impact on recidivism;

• The initial placement of offenders convicted of first- and second-degree murder;

• CSC’s approach to the location of its Community Correctional Centres and Parole Offices in urban areas;

• CSC’s ability to deal with parole violations, and with frivolous and vexatious grievances by offenders;

• CSC’s plans to enhance services for and support to victims;

• CSC’s efficiency in delivering on its public safety mandate – identifying barriers and opportunities for savings including through physical plant re-alignment and infrastructure renewal;

• CSC’s operational priorities, strategies and plans as defined in its business plan;

• Current challenges with respect to safety and security in institutions, including those related to reducing illicit drugs and combating violence, and requirements for the future;

• CSC’s capacity to deliver, including its capacity to address infrastructure rust out, maintain basic safety and security in institutions and communities, meet its basic policy and legal obligations; and adapt to the changing offender profile.

The panel was not mandated to consider the introduction of privately run penitentiaries into the federal correctional system.

Budget

Budget 2007 dedicated $3.5 million to this review. However, when all the bills are in, the full review should cost about $1 million - less than a third of what was allocated. All expenditures are available through the Public Accounts process.