Statement by the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth on the Correctional Investigator's report on the management of chronic self-injury among federally sentenced women

TORONTO, Sept. 30, 2013 /CNW/ - The Correctional Investigator of Canada released a report today that finds 'significant challenges remain in respect to the management and treatment of chronic self-injury among federally sentenced women.'

"The Canadian public was operating on the assumption that the Correctional Service of Canada was taking meaningful steps to prevent a tragedy like what happened to Ashley Smith from recurring," said Irwin Elman, Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth. "The Correctional Investigator's report - shockingly - tells us that this has not happened. The report reviewed data over a 30 month period, three years after Ashley Smith's death, and found eight similar cases. We endorse the findings and recommendations made by the Office of the Correctional Investigator and intend to hold correctional witnesses accountable for these glaring failures in our questioning at the Ashley Smith inquest. We note that the Correctional Service of Canada attempted to shield Commissioner Don Head from testifying at the inquest. Perhaps this report explains why."

About the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth
The Office of the Provincial Advocate reports directly to the Legislature and provides an independent voice for children and youth, including children with special needs and First Nations children. The Provincial Advocate receives and responds to concerns from children, youth and families who are seeking or receiving services under the Child and Family Services Act and the Education Act (Provincial and Demonstration Schools). The Provincial Advocate identifies systemic problems involving children, conducts reviews and provides education and advice on the issue of advocacy and the rights of children. The Office is guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and has a strong commitment to youth involvement.

SOURCE: Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth

Media Contact: 
Fiona Taylor
Tel: [phone]
Email: [email protected]