Ontario NDP calls for PTSD supports following Thunder Bay jail hostage situation

Oshawa MPP and NDP Community Safety and Correctional Services critic Jennifer French chastised the Liberal government for continuing to endanger correctional officers after a hostage situation at the Thunder Bay jail earlier this week. French also called for greater supports for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

“The correctional officer that was taken hostage at the Thunder Bay jail underwent a traumatizing experience none of us could imagine. What he couldn’t imagine was getting to see his family again,” said French. “Though he is physically safe now, the incident will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the officer, his family and his colleagues.”

French called on the Minister to address the systemic issues in Ontario’s correctional facilities, and to ensure that the affected officers receive the PTSD supports they require.

Over the past three days, a crowdfunding campaign has raised over $23,000 and counting to support the officer who was taken hostage, and his family.  

“I think it says a lot that Ontarians are raising money to support a frontline officer in his time of need,” said French. “I also think it says a lot about the lack of public faith in the support that he and others in need can expect from this government.”    

The government is currently reviewing the PTSD supports that are provided to frontline workers following a Private Member’s Bill that was put forward by NDP MPP Cheri Dinovo. 

“Will the Minister commit to working with the Minister of Labour to ensure that correctional officers receive the respect and post-traumatic stress supports they deserve?” asked French.