The Quebec government is implementing fresh strategies to prevent contraband from entering its correctional facilities. One of these measures is a 12-month trial program that will mandate inmates at the Roberval Detention Centre, located 350 kilometers northeast of Montreal, to don uniforms starting in September. This move aims to streamline the search process, differentiate inmates from staff and visitors, and eliminate any indicators of ties to criminal groups that could incite violence, as stated by the Public Security Ministry in a recent press release.
Presently, individuals incarcerated in Quebec’s detention centers wear their personal clothing. Isabelle Mailloux, who heads the Réseau correctionnel de Montréal, highlighted challenges arising from this practice in recent years. Inmates have exploited their clothing to smuggle illicit substances like drugs, often concealing them in clothing seams or footwear. Mailloux mentioned inventive methods such as impregnating clothes with illicit substances to sneak them in.
To enhance security within Quebec’s detention facilities, the government has invested $35 million in 2023. As part of this security enhancement effort, inmates will be required to wear a uniform comprising simple and comfortable attire like cotton-polyester T-shirts, long-sleeved sweatshirts, sweatpants, sweat shorts, shoes, socks, and underwear. The Roberval facility was chosen for the pilot project due to its sewing workshop where inmates can craft their pants.
Quebec’s Domestic Security Minister Ian Lafrenière emphasized that this initiative promotes “social reintegration through employment.” Notably, nine provinces, one territory, and Correctional Service Canada already mandate inmate uniforms. The decision to extend this requirement across Quebec hinges on the outcomes of the pilot project.
Furthermore, the government is enhancing disciplinary measures by amending the Règlement d’application de la Loi sur le système correctionnel du Québec. Effective September 28, these amendments will empower staff at Quebec’s detention centers to report misconduct in broader scenarios, including the delivery of prohibited substances and items via drones. Mailloux described drones as a persistent problem that the government has been combatting for years.
Data from Quebec’s correctional services network reveal that between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, 1,521 drones were sighted at detention centers in the province. From April to June of the current year, there have been 234 drone sightings. Mailloux emphasized the global nature of this issue, attributing it to evolving technology and corresponding tactics employed by incarcerated individuals.
Under the revised regulations, disciplinary committees will have the authority to impose harsher penalties for severe misconduct such as smuggling cellphones or damaging infrastructure. These sanctions may involve community service, suspension of canteen privileges, or extended isolation periods, all while considering the physical and mental well-being of inmates.