Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has extended the period for David Loukidelis to conduct the independent inspection of the Whitehorse Correctional Centre (WCC).
Mr. Loukidelis now has until May 15 to provide his final inspection report along with any recommendations to the Government of Yukon. The scope of the inspection outlined in the Terms of Reference remains unchanged.
The inspection began in early January and is intended to identify areas where the government can improve policies, programs and service delivery at the WCC – particularly the practices which may affect the mental health of inmates.
The government is working cooperatively with Mr. Loukidelis and has committed to releasing its response to the public within 90 days of receipt of the report.
At the request of Mr. Loukidelis, I have provided an extension for the Whitehorse Correctional Centre inspection. The additional time will allow for meaningful engagement with First Nations and a thorough review of information and documents obtained during the course of the inspection. I look forward to receiving Mr. Loukidelis’s report and recommendations on how we can improve operations at Whitehorse Correctional Centre.
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee
I am pleased with the progress I have made since early January – visiting Whitehorse Correctional Centre, reviewing documentation and beginning my engagement with various stakeholders. I am grateful for an extension providing me some extra time to engage more fully with Yukon First Nations. The extra time allows us to move forward in the spirit of collaboration while gathering important context to the inspection.
David Loukidelis, Queen’s Counsel
Minister McPhee called for an inspection at the Whitehorse Correctional Centre in September 2017 under Section 36 of the Yukon Corrections Act, 2009.
Mr. Loukidelis was appointed for the independent inspection in November 2017 and provided full access to examine the WCC facility, conduct interviews and access records and information that he sees as essential for a thorough and meaningful inspection. Medical records are only included as part of the inspection if inmates provide consent.
Mr. Loukidelis is seeking input from First Nations, community members and other stakeholders to give context to matters that fall under the scope of the inspection.
Sunny Patch
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca
Megan Foreman
Communications, Justice
867-667-3232
megan.foreman@gov.yk.ca