QUESTION PERIOD — Public Safety
Overrepresentation of Indigenous People in Prisons
March 26, 2026
This question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Following her investigation of the illegal strip-searching and lengthy segregation of Indigenous women and their transfer to a predominantly men’s prison, 30 years ago, former Justice Arbour recommended the placement of limits on the use of segregation and noted the need for correctional accountability and remedies for prisoners whose rights were violated. These issues continue, and the overrepresentation of Indigenous women and girls is now far worse and increasing.
What plans is the government implementing to address these issues?
As I mentioned to your colleague Senator Audette, we cannot solve the issue overnight. However, the government is committed to doing so, specifically with respect to overrepresentation of Indigenous women in the system.
The government has taken multiple actions and concrete steps to improve conditions and oversight in federal corrections, including reform of administrative segregation, increased external oversight and expanded support for mental health rehabilitation. The government also continues to invest in Indigenous-led solutions, such as healing lodges and community-based reintegration programs, recognizing these approaches are essential to breaking cycles of incarceration and improving outcomes for Indigenous women.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action 30 was accepted by the government, but 10 years on, the massive overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples continues. When and how will Canada meet its commitments and address these issues?
As I mentioned, the reality is that justice outcomes are often shaped long before someone enters the system. That is why, as a global strategy, the government is acting in advance of Indigenous or other communities entering the justice system.
This is why we are investing in housing, child welfare and entrepreneurship. For Indigenous communities alone, the government has committed $2.8 billion for Indigenous housing and $1.5 billion for child care —
Thank you, Senator Moreau. Thirty seconds go by quickly.
