The Central North Correctional Centre in Penetanguishene is getting more correctional officers.
The province announced Friday it was hiring 123 new correctional officers across Ontario. It is putting $500 million over five years “to modernize correctional facilities and reduce the financial and geographic barrier for new recruits by covering the cost of training.”
Twenty-seven of the new officers will be employed in the western region, which includes the Central North Correctional Centre and the Sarnia Jail.
“Correctional officers contribute to the safety of our communities and provide a vital service within the justice system, and we are proud to have their backs,” Solicitor General Michael Kerzner said in a news release. “On behalf of the Ontario government, I applaud every person who has chosen a career in corrections and thank them for their commitment to public service and to ensuring inmates have what they need for successful rehabilitation while in custody.”
The new hires have finished an eight-week virtual training program from Mohawk College. They also took part in In-person training provided by the Corrections Centre for Professional Advancement and Training.
“All recruits received extensive training with enhanced instruction in communication and de-escalation techniques,” the release stated. “The curriculum also included a focus on anti-Black racism, Indigenous cultural training, and inmate management techniques.”
Other officers have been hired to work at the following locations:
- Eastern region (32): Central East Correctional Centre, Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, Quinte Detention Centre
- Northern region (32): Fort Frances Jail, Kenora Jail, Monteith Correctional Complex, Sudbury Jail, Thunder Bay Correctional Centre
- Toronto region (17): Toronto East Detention Centre, Toronto South Detention Centre
- Central region (15): Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre, Maplehurst Correctional Complex, Vanier Centre for Women
