Increased Security Measures at Burnside Correctional Facilities

More measures are being taken to increase safety and security at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility, Justice Minister Ross Landry announced today, Sept. 13.

"The escalating inmate violence at the Burnside facility is not acceptable and will not be tolerated," said Mr. Landry. "Today we are introducing a number of measures to reduce the threat of violence to both inmates and correctional staff."

Effective immediately, the province's Director of Correctional Services, Sean Kelly, will relocate his office to the Burnside facility. While Mr. Kelly oversees all the province's correctional facilities, he will devote all of his time to the issues at Burnside.

A more vigorous camera-monitoring policy will be implemented, and camera upgrades are planned to better view the day rooms and around cells. This will increase surveillance and supervision of offenders.

An Electronic Officer Rounds Tour system will be implemented. This is a hand-held wand-type device that records information on when, and who, conducted rounds.

A new provincial compliance and investigation unit within Correctional Services will be in place by March to provide support and access to expertise in this area.

Facility management and senior Justice officials have met and will work together to address issues at the facility.

"The management team will continue to work with senior Justice officials and correctional workers to focus on improvements," said Eileen Collett, captain assigned to the Burnside facility. "We are committed to change and implement further measures to enhance safety and security for offenders, my coworkers and myself."

Thirty more part-time staff are being hired.

Policies are also being reviewed and best practices highlighted.

Thorough internal investigations of all incidents of violence will continue, with quick, appropriate and corrective action taken, where necessary.