While adults held in federal custody fell by 1 per cent, February to April, there were double digit drops in provincial custody over the same period. In Saskatchewan, the average daily counts for adults held in custody within provincial jurisdiction fell 23 per cent. The biggest drop was in Nova Scotia at 41 per cent.

Statistics Canada say the COVID-19 pandemic has led to many health and safety challenges for Canadians but particularly at correctional institutions because of close-proximity living conditions, and the lack of physical distancing options.

As of August 6th, 1,496 COVID tests had been conducted on the federal custodial population and about one-quarter of these were positive. There have been two confirmed deaths. With the exception of one case, all others have recovered.

Reducing the number of people held in custody is seen as a preventive measure to reduce the public health risk. Some of the steps taken include temporary or early release of those who are considered a low risk to re-offend; extended periods for parole appeals and access to medical leave privileges; and alternatives to custody while awaiting trials, sentencing, and bail hearings.