The Fort Smith Correctional Complex will soon shutter, and the anticipated date for layoffs would be effective three months after the budget is passed.
The current capacity of the correctional system is no longer needed, but there is no desire to eliminate it entirely. The Fort Smith Correctional Complex remains operational. Additionally, the South Mackenzie Correctional Centre in Hay River and the North Slave Correctional Complex in Yellowknife are currently operational and have vacancies.
NWT Premier R.J. Simpson states that the decision was not taken lightly. Fifteen full-time and seventeen relief positions are impacted, along with a senior management role in Yellowknife, due to the reduced workload.
The inmate population has consistently declined over the past ten years. Combined, the facilities now operate at approximately 44 per cent capacity, averaging 80 to 90 inmates, against a total capacity of 228. With only 100 inmates currently, the justification for public expenditure on largely vacant facilities is challenging. The government aims to reallocate these funds more effectively, acknowledging the community’s concerns and committing to lessen the impact.
According to the Deputy Minister, Charlene Doolittle, changes to criminal codes are responsible for the decline in inmate numbers. Modifications in federal regulations and case law, although pinpointing the exact causes is difficult. Since 2020, there has also been a decline, coinciding with enhanced social support in the NWT.
The mandate and business plan provide courts with more resources to effectively target individuals involved in the drug trade. This raises the question: if we intensify efforts against the drug trade, might this lead to an increase in inmate numbers in the future? The Premier believes that we still won’t reach full capacity.
The territory wants to adopt a therapeutic model, treating inmates as residents, with the aim of equipping them with the necessary tools. The goal is to ensure they have the greatest chance of rehabilitation success.
The territory is considering replacing correction centres with wellness centres, although a formal plan for these wellness centres is not yet in place. These centres would focus on aftercare and land-based healing. While treatment centres have been present in the territory, they have not met with success. The government plans to collaborate with the community to secure funding for the operation of wellness centres. The goal is to provide a holistic approach to healing and support for individuals to address underlying issues such as addiction and mental health.
