Today the Province announced that expansion projects will begin at two of its correctional facilities. A new 48-cell unit will be constructed at the Agassiz Youth Centre (AYC) in Portage La Prairie, and an 80-bed expansion is planned for the Brandon Correctional Centre (BCC).
Construction for AYC is expected to begin this summer and construction at BCC will begin this fall, with substantial completion at both locations expected in late 2010.
The expansion of AYC will also require additional staff and new food services support to ensure the facility is ready to operate independently when the new women's facility in Headingley replaces the Portage Correctional Centre.
Other recent initiatives to add capacity to the adult system include the addition of a 150-bed unit at Milner Ridge Correctional Centre.
“This is an encouraging sign that the Government is working towards creating a safe and secure environment for our members and the offenders housed in these facilities,” said Peter Olfert, MGEU President.
Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux stated these expansion projects are a significant step forward in the province's commitment to meeting the capacity needs of our correctional system.