REGINA – Inmates at Regina Correctional Centre have now started eating again, ending their five-day hunger strike.
Drew Wilby of Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Justice, said the protest started Thursday with 16 inmates.
Wilby said the inmates had a list of demands, but they have nothing to do with food.
He said they wanted more time outside their cells, a larger yard outside, an increase in the amount they can spend at the canteen and more access to sweat lodges.
Get daily National news
They also wanted the number of cable TV channels increased to 60 from 12, and they wanted one movie channel.
“The most appropriate way to bring these issues forward for the offenders is through their inmate management committee. Each unit is given representatives on that committee, and they can bring any issue forward for discussion with management.”
“I would encourage inmates in unit 2D1 to do that or any other inmate at Regina correctional”, said Wilby.
The Ministry of Justice said it does not negotiate with inmates while they’re refusing their trays.
It said it may consider some of the requests, but there are no guarantees.
It also said increased television channels are still off the table.
“That’s something we don’t see appropriate for that unit. That’s something we won’t entertain. That’s not an appropriate use of taxpayers resources”, said Wilby.
With files from Christa Dao.
Comments