The minister of justice says “immediate action” was taken to address a shortage of toothbrushes at HMP as soon as the department was notified on October 21.
Helen Conway Ottenheimer was responding to concerns raised on VOCM Open Line by inmate Jesse Lewis who described “inhumane” conditions at the Pen.
The minister, who was asked about the situation by reporters yesterday, said a supply shortage is to blame.
Minister of Justice and Public Safety Helen Conway Ottenheimer (VOCM News)
She says the issue was resolved and the department is now looking for long-term solutions “so this does not happen again.”
As for continued overcrowding at HMP, the minister admits, challenges remain.
She’s hopeful that the opening of the new correctional centre in the fall of 2029 will address those issues.
