The events that took place in James Smith Cree Nation in September sent shockwaves across our union, and every corner of this country.
Since this tragedy, USJE has endeavoured to ensure we offer ongoing support to USJE members who were affected, directly or indirectly, by virtue of their work in Corrections, the RCMP or the Parole Board of Canada.
The current Board of Investigation (BOI) inquiry on this matter represents the next challenge that some of our members will face. It is common for those who have worked closely with a federal offender, who has gone on to commit a particularly egregious violent crime, to be called to testify in a National Board of Investigation. In this case, it is a joint investigation between the Correctional Service of Canada and the Parole Board of Canada.
Given the overall significance of this tragedy, USJE wanted to ensure that any member called into this Board of Investigation would have the support of Regional and National USJE representatives during their respective interviews should they so choose.
Last week, National President David Neufeld, and Regional Vice-Presidents Shauna Ward and Jeff Sandelli, traveled to Saskatoon and made themselves available to participate in and support the interviews of all USJE members called to meet with the Board of Investigation. This support was given either in person or virtually, depending on how the interview was scheduled. RVP Ward also made a trip to Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, to assist with member representation there. It was important that USJE members being called to testify knew that their USJE leaders were in the room to support them and be a witness to the process.
Testifying before the Board of Investigation can be a stressful and unsettling experience. Our members employed by CSC in Saskatchewan can rest assured that USJE will do everything it can to accompany them during these difficult experiences, and help support them in the months and years ahead.