Changes to Yukon's Corrections Amendments Starting June 19 2020

Friday, 19 June 2020 13:43

Amendments to Yukon's Corrections Act and Corrections Regulations to address segregation and restrictive confinement within Yukon Corrections will come into force on June 19, 2020.

The amendments provide a clearer and more comprehensive framework to govern the use of segregation and restrictive confinement. They also establish new independent external oversight and accountability measures for the use of segregation in Yukon's corrections system.

A review adjudicator will be appointed to review segregation placements prior to an inmate being held in non-disciplinary segregation for five consecutive days. Additionally, a review panel will be established to provide oversight in circumstances where an individual has been held in segregation for more than 40 aggregate days. These external review processes are designed to provide independence and ensure that placements are only done in accordance with the circumstances contained in the amended legislation.

Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee said in a statement, "These progressive amendments follow the United Nation's Mandela Rules and align corrections in the Yukon with international best-practices for those in custody. Corrections reform and the safe, fair and compassionate treatment of inmates is our government's priority."

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