Union members are braving the elements on day two of the PSAC strike. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

On Strike

Correctional Service Canada warns of possible disruptions at Sask Pen. due to strike

Apr 20, 2023 | 2:00 PM

A nationwide strike, impacting over 150,000 federal employees, remains ongoing.

Representatives from the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) remain at the bargaining table with the employer. Wages and keeping up with the rising cost of living appear to be the main concerns. There’s also been discussion around protecting members, who are being told to return to the job site after three years of being allowed to work from home.

In the meantime, strike action in Prince Albert has moved to the area outside Saskatchewan Penitentiary, where dozens of union members were gathered Thursday near the main entrance gate. Others were observed walking in the field area, east of the prison. And a long line of vehicles sat parked along 15th St. W. to show their support.

According to a statement provided to paNOW from the CSC, the protection, safety and security of our communities is a top priority.

“Like other government departments, we have employees who are affected by ongoing labour activities. At this time, we have experienced labour activities. However, we have worked to ensure that essential operations are maintained as many employees have been deemed essential. Interventions are being offered to inmates and will continue to the best of our abilities,” the statement said.

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The statement clarified, as they fall under different unions, correctional officers and health staff are not impacted. Therefore the work they do to supervise inmate activities, maintain safety and security standards, and provide essential health care to federally incarcerated individuals will also continue.

Visits by family, friends and other supports, will continue to proceed, however, visitors are being encouraged to call ahead of their planned visit to ensure there are no disruptions.

Despite the cold, wet conditions, members appear undeterred. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Anyone with family members serving time at the prison, are being encouraged to call the institution ahead of time for the latest updates before travelling.

Certain Parole Board of Canada (PBC) services may also be impacted.

“The PBC is making every possible effort to mitigate any potential disruption and to ensure the continuity of its services during any labour action,” the government said.

(Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

A second gathering of union members is outside the Indigenous Services Canada office on Marquis Drive.

Roughly 300 PSAC members from the Prince Albert area are impacted by the strike. The affected departments include Agriculture Canada, Canada Revenue Agency, Fisheries, Northern Affairs, RCMP and Veterans Affairs.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell