New Corrections Act for Safer, Stronger Nova Scotia

New Corrections Act for Safer, Stronger Nova Scotia

Electronic ankle monitors will soon be available to track people who are under house arrest in Nova Scotia.

Justice Minister Michael Baker introduced legislation today, Oct. 19, that will allow use of the monitors and satellite technology to trace offenders.

"Nova Scotia will become the first jurisdiction in Canada to use GPS (global positioning system) satellite technology to monitor offenders under conditional sentences," said Mr. Baker. "We'll begin with a trial project this winter, as we continue to improve programs that make sure offenders live up to their court-ordered obligations."

The Correctional Services Act will also make it mandatory for people to provide information to probation officers who prepare pre-sentence reports. The legislation will also place restrictions on the use of telephones by offenders in custody, and authorizes the monitoring of phone calls.

"This legislation is all about ensuring the safety of the public, our staff and offenders," said Mr. Baker. "It responds to the changing nature of the offender population, and ensures a firm, fair and consistent approach to operations."

The act spells out procedures to protect the privacy and dignity of female offenders, by ensuring that they are held in separate living units and are supervised by female staff.

Another provision permits the release of offenders on weekdays rather than weekends, so they can take advantage of community programs on their day of release.

The legislation will also provide greater protection for victims and their families. Corrections staff will be able to tell victims where the offender is being held in custody, the terms of a conditional release or parole, and details surrounding the release.