FSIN proposes $90 million remand centre

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) has a proposal in the works to build a First Nations-owned $90 million dollar remand centre for First Nations prisoners awaiting trial.

The envisioned facility would be adjacent to the Saskatoon Correctional Centre on 60th Street East, have a detoxification or ‘dry out’ unit with medical supervision and may have a women’s unit, according to media sources.

“We are going to make this a priority,” said FSIN Chief Guy Lonechild in a StarPhoenix interview when asked about the idea. He added that the situation of those on remand and others in the correctional centre has been an ongoing concern of First Nations leaders.

It is expected that a new remand centre would remove First Nations prisoners, particularly young offenders, from the influence of prison gangs and “allow them to be housed in a more human, appropriate setting,” said an anonymous source.

The proposal considers financing for the building would possibly be secured through bank loans, government funding, or First Nations revenue generated from profits such as casinos. Another possible funding surce would have the province operate the facility and “paying an annual per-bed amount back to the First Nations consortium”.

The idea has generated a wide variety of reactions, after the information was leaked by an anonymous source in mid-December.

Representing the Province, Corrections, Public Safety and Policing Minister Yogi Huyghebaert stated the idea was mentioned in a provincial cabinet meeting and was welcomed for further discussion because of the need for more First Nations and Métis involvement in the corrections system.

The provincial government pointed out last year that a remand centre was required but the $90 million dollar cost was considered too much.

The union representing corrections staff was reported to have said they oppose any “third-party” control. As well, some criminal defense lawyers in Saskatoon were reported saying the idea is worth exploring, as it is currently a major issue in Canadian society.

Lawyer Brian Pfefferle stated in a StarPhoenix interview that those in remand are on trial for various reasons ranging from a prior lengthy criminal record to commiting a major crime. Often they may simply not have enough money to pay for a proper bail application.

Seeing as how First Nations people make up a large part of those who are low income in Saskatchewan, a person would more likely to be on remand.

On January 12, FSIN Chief Guy Lonechild was scheduled to meet with officials for discussions around the idea. However, no further information was provided and calls from Sage were unreturned.