SUBSTANCE ABUSE UNITS SET UP IN SASKATCHEWAN CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES

Corrections, Public Safety and Policing will spend $225,000 to further the development of in-facility treatment units to deal with substance abuse among inmates.

"Establishing these units marks another milestone in achieving this government's commitment to make rehabilitation more effective and to increase support for addiction treatment for offenders," Corrections, Public Safety and Policing Minister Darryl Hickie said. "By providing this kind of treatment inside our correctional facilities, we're working to reduce crime in our communities."

The Regina Correctional Centre's addictions treatment unit began full programming early in April. Inmates eligible for the program have been moved to the unit, where they will undergo a 28-day treatment schedule. Inmates from other provincial correctional centres can also be referred to the Regina program.

Additional substance abuse units are planned for adult correctional facilities in Saskatoon and Prince Albert. Corrections workers receiving specialized training in case management and programming for addictions will be permanently assigned to each facility's substance abuse unit.

"Addictions treatment is part of the programming made available through the corrections system to help offenders successfully re-integrate into their communities," Hickie said. "These programs are designed using best practices and evidence-based research to ensure that outcomes for offenders are successful."

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For more information, contact:

Judy Orthner
Corrections, Public Safety and Policing
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5883
Email: judy.orthner@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-2233