Jail celebrates first year

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A prison rarely has reason to celebrate. However, with the first anniversary of the Pe Sakastew jail located near Hobbema, a celebration is exactly what happened on Aug. 22.

Led by the eagle staff, a grand entry included local First Nation leaders, Assembly of First Nations Grand Chief Phil Fontaine, former assembly grand chief Ovide Mercredi, Commissioner of Correctional Services Ole Ingstrup and Solicitor General Andy Scott.

Calling the instutution a "new beginning," Scott attributed much of the facility's success to the dedicated staff, administration and volunteers. That success will not result in more prisons of its kind being built anytime soon, however.

"Of course our goal is to make institutions like this unnecessary," Scott said, adding that the facility's influence will be felt in current prisons in the form of programs.

Pe Sakastew was created to meet the needs of a Canada's Native prison population. The centre allows inmates to learn, practice and share Native heritage, with the expectation that strong cultural ties will lead to self-respect and rehabilitation.

Corrections boss Ole Ingstrup has been watching Aboriginal programs within the corrections system very closely.

"My commitment to Aboriginal justice is profound and in my heart," he said. "I hope all of you who live here can know that this is an invitation to a better life."

The facility cost $9 million to build and has an annual operating budget of $2.2 million. The facility can hold up to 34 inmates at one time.

Through the first year of its existence, Pe Sakastew sent 100 inmates back into society. Of those, one was arrested again, and two others violated the conditions of their release orders, said Pe Sakastew executive director Violet Soosay.

"This saddens me greatly," she said, but added they must continue their struggle because there were 97 success stories.

Her work is bitter-sweet.

"There is a lot of healing that we need, but I can only help those that come through these doors," she said.