A federal prison watchdog is stepping down from his role earlier than planned due to frustrations with the government’s lack of action on systemic human rights issues. Dr. Ivan Zinger, Canada’s correctional investigator, expressed disappointment during the presentation of an annual report focused on mental health. He emphasized the need for the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) and government officials to change their approach to improve mental health services for prisoners.
Zinger highlighted various deficiencies in mental health care in federal prisons, including outdated policies, inadequate staff training, and a lack of effective screening and post-release support programs. The report also criticized the regional treatment centers for federal inmates, describing them as unsuitable for acute cases.
One of the key recommendations in the report was to move individuals with long-term psychiatric needs to hospitals outside the prison system for proper treatment. However, this suggestion was rejected by the CSC, which argued for the importance of maintaining in-patient psychiatric care within the prison system.
Zinger also criticized the government’s plan to spend $1.3 billion on a new hospital for inmates in New Brunswick, calling it a misallocation of resources. He urged the government to reconsider and suggested partnering with local hospitals instead.
Despite facing resistance from the CSC and government officials, Zinger remains determined to advocate for meaningful prison reforms. He expressed satisfaction with the impact of his office’s reports in prompting legal actions to address human rights violations and ensure compliance with federal inmates’ legal rights.
