The BCGEU has requested a meeting with WorkSafeBC representatives to develop a plan to address the increasing number of inmate assaults on Correctional Officers in provincial prisons.

In a letter to WorkSafeBC CEO and President Donna Miles, our union cites the increased number of attacks on officers in 2015, up 39% from 2014, and the already high number of assaults in 2016.

WorkSafeBC completed comprehensive inspections of all nine provincial prisons in 2013. These inspections uncovered serious health and safety violations and 58 orders were issued. Our union continues to believe the increasing violence, and assaults on staff, are the result of dangerous officer to inmate ratios that need to be addressed.

Click here to read the letter.

Dean Purdy
BCGEU vice president Corrections and Sheriff Services – Component 1.

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