The BCGEU is renewing its call to reopen and expand services at the partially closed Victoria Youth Custody Centre (VYCC). The call comes as new auxiliary, on-call staff are being hired at the centre which was partially closed last year to save money.

“Our frontline members, stakeholders and experts overwhelmingly objected to the closing of VYCC. They argued that the services provided there are crucial to at-risk youth and law enforcement in the area,” says BCGEU president Stephanie Smith. “The hiring of new staff proves this facility and the services our members provide are crucial and that it should not be closed.”

The Liberal government decision to close VYCC was roundly condemned by the BCGEU, First Nations, the Representative for Children and Youth, legal experts, local mayors and police chiefs.

The BCGEU believes the provincial government should explore other options for the facility, including:

• alternative capacity uses for the centre;
• reaching out in the community to explore options and to seek support; and
• exploring housing youth females at both VYCC & Prince George Youth Custody Centre.

“It is not too late for the government to do the right thing, keep VYCC open, and provide expanded services for at-risk youth in the region,” says Dean Purdy, BCGEU vice president for Corrections and Sheriff Services. “Approximately 30 Correctional Officers with many years of experience working with young offenders were moved from VYCC to other positions in government. They should have the opportunity to remain at VYCC and work with these young people.”