News release

Response to Employment Review Completed

Justice

The correctional services division of the Department of Justice has taken positive steps to address an employment systems review. That review, completed last spring, examined policies and practices in recruitment, hiring, selection, retention, career development, promotion, discipline and termination.

"I would like to thank author Terry Mills and members of the advisory committee who explored these important issues," Fred Honsberger, executive director of correctional services, said today, Sept. 22. "We're now following up those practical recommendations that will advance a safe, modern workplace and promote our vision of an inclusive, diverse workforce."

Correctional services will seek further advice from the Public Service Commission as the division prepares it annual work plans. Some of the recommendations require further consultation with stakeholders.

"Corrections is a challenging work environment," said Mr. Honsberger. "And I'm extremely proud of the men and women who have chosen to serve the public as employees in our correctional facilities and our community corrections programs. They are professionals who deserve our continued support and encouragement."

The department's narrative response to the correctional services employment systems review is available by following the links on the publications page on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/just/.

The correctional services divisions employs more than 600 staff who supervise adult and youth offenders and offer programs to help offenders make wise choices on their return to the community. The division is responsible for the administration and operation of five adult provincial correctional facilities, two young offender facilities and 16 community corrections offices.