In terms of recognizing that mental health issues are serious challenges for the Correctional Service of Canada, we agree with Mr. Saper on this. Where we disagree is where he says that no progress has been made.
Since 2002 the Correctional Service of Canada has been working very aggressively on a comprehensive mental health strategy, and we are actually in the process of completing the vast majority of the phases of this mental health strategy.
When an offender arrives at an institution, and previously he was self-reporting on the issues, we have instituted a computerized assessment process whereby we can quickly identify the issues of mental health. And from that, the taking charge of that offender occurs. The correctional plan and the healing plan of that person is developed, which identifies what kinds of interventions are required.
Of course we are challenged, particularly in the area of retention and recruitment of mental health professionals. We are developing in terms of human resources a very aggressive recruitment process, but we do have some retention issues. We have enhanced the capacity of the regional treatment centres and we have almost multiplied the number of contracts we have with mental health professionals.
We also engage in many horizontal approaches with our partners and stakeholders. The issue of mental health has been discussed with the head of corrections in territorial governments, for example. We are in a constant search for best practices. The commission for mental health, chaired by--