The union that represents Saskatchewan’s legal aid lawyers is calling on the federal and provincial governments to release non-violent inmates from prison and jail to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
CUPE Local 1949, which represents more than 130 legal aid employees including lawyers and administrative staff, wants immediate measures put in place to protect incarcerated populations and reduce the strain on the healthcare system.
“Overcrowded facilities housing vulnerable populations are a potential public health risk,” said Meara Conway, president of CUPE 1949 in a statement on March 19. “An outbreak in any of Saskatchewan’s jails could strain nearby health care systems, and threaten the wellbeing of inmates, staff, and nearby communities.”
The union wants the federal and provincial government to release non-violent inmates considered at low risk to re-offend, and especially those who are elderly and/or have medical conditions that make them vulnerable to COVID-19.
“Individuals meeting these criteria should be released in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in Saskatchewan’s custodial facilities,” said Conway. “We are entering unchartered territory and must respond with proactive measures. In order to protect our communities, reduce the strain on our healthcare system, and ensure the humane treatment of all incarcerated people, we are asking for governments to take action now.”
The union also wants recommendations from the government on how to address those who are remanded in custody and waiting for a trial.
“Except where detained on the basis of a risk to re-offend involving a substantive offence, which poses a threat to public safety, government should consider redirecting the release of these individuals,” said Conway. “Under no circumstances should individuals be detained for administration of justice offences, such as failures to appear in court or breaches of conditions.”
The union also wants the government to give directives to Crown prosecutors and judges to consider community release options for convicted persons where appropriate.
The Saskatchewan Attorney General’s office was contacted for comment.
