Ottawa’s decision to allocate $1.3 billion for constructing a new hospital for inmates in New Brunswick has been criticized by Correctional Investigator of Canada Ivan Zinger in his latest annual report. Zinger, the ombudsman for inmates in the federal correctional system, suggests that the government should collaborate with provincial facilities for acute mental health services instead.
Zinger believes that Correctional Service Canada (CSC) could have invested in increased bed capacity through partnerships with provinces, a more compassionate, cost-efficient, and sustainable approach. He argues that the $1.3 billion earmarked for the new hospital could have funded this model for many years to come.
Expressing concern, Zinger opposes the proximity of the federal project to the Dorchester Penitentiary, emphasizing that mental health care for inmates should be provided outside the prison setting. He stresses that individuals with severe mental illnesses should be treated as patients first, not as inmates.
While Zinger was not available for comment, his report urges the federal government to reassess its strategy. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has stated that he will collaborate with the Correctional Investigator’s office to address the issues raised in the report. However, the government has rejected Zinger’s suggestion to halt the construction of the new facility.
Recent reports indicate that the project’s cost has surged to $1.3 billion, a significant increase from the initial $400 million allocation in 2021. This new facility will replace the Shepody Healing Centre within the Dorchester Penitentiary, which has been likened to a “dungeon” by a psychiatrist there.
The new hospital will be situated in the Beauséjour riding, represented by cabinet minister Dominic LeBlanc. Despite the budget escalation, LeBlanc endorses the project, emphasizing the importance of providing appropriate care to individuals for their successful reintegration into society.
Luc Doucet, the former director of the Shepody Centre, defended the new hospital project, asserting that delaying the initiative will only escalate costs. He emphasized the responsibility to treat individuals with care to ensure their safe return to society.
In conclusion, the ongoing debate regarding the allocation of resources for inmate healthcare continues to draw attention, with differing perspectives on the most effective and humane approach to addressing mental health needs within the correctional system.