Madam Speaker, the Government of Canada remains committed to evidence-based policy that is informed by experts. That is why a prison farm advisory panel was established back in 2017. The panel works to bring together agricultural and farming leaders, among others, to provide informed recommendations on program ideas and how we can better protect our communities through offender rehabilitation.
Regarding the claims being made, there has been no preferential treatment or conflict of interest. All decisions have been open and transparent and made to ensure the value for money for Canadians.
CSC works to support local farmers and local communities where the penitentiary agriculture program operates. All cattle are chosen specifically based on criteria such as their health, age, size and production capacity, as well as overall costs. At no point is a vendor selected based on who the seller is, and procurement costs are always determined based on fair market value.
CSC has a long history of supporting local farmers. For example, in 2011, following the closure of CORCAN farm operations at the Collins Bay and Joyceville institutions, CSC signed leave and licence agreements so local farmers could use the lands for agricultural purposes. Today, farmland is being maintained and utilized through the penitentiary farm program, which has included rebuilding land and crop production and incorporating environmental considerations and opportunities in planning and utilization.
I am proud to note that CSC is recognized as an international leader in the development and delivery of correctional interventions. The penitentiary agriculture program helps federal inmates gain employment skills to find meaningful employment in the community, which enhances reintegration and reduces recidivism.
The farms at the Joyceville and Collins Bay institutions provide on-the-job and vocational training that relates to the agricultural industry, but is also transferable to other industries to help support offenders in their reintegration. Research dating back to earlier than 2014 has found that inmates who participate in the CORCAN employment programs while incarcerated are more likely to be granted parole and more likely to get a job in the community. As we know, offenders who find jobs in the community are three times less likely to reoffend. Programs such as those offered by the penitentiary agriculture program contribute to safer communities across the country.
I would like to thank members of the panel, who have helped contribute to the success of these farms.