The Quebec government is implementing fresh strategies to prevent contraband from infiltrating its correctional facilities. A 12-month trial initiative set to commence in September at the Roberval Detention Centre, located 350 kilometers northeast of Montreal, will mandate inmates to wear uniforms. This move aims to streamline search procedures, 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, detainees in Quebec’s detention centers are allowed to wear their personal attire, which has led to issues such as inmates using their clothing to smuggle illicit substances like drugs. Isabelle Mailloux, the director of the Réseau correctionnel de Montréal, highlighted concerns about the smuggling methods, mentioning that drugs are often concealed in clothing seams or shoes, with more innovative techniques like soaking clothes in illegal substances also being employed.
The decision to implement uniforms is part of a broader security enhancement initiative in Quebec’s detention facilities, backed by a $35 million government investment in 2023. The prescribed uniform will include basic and comfortable clothing items like cotton-polyester T-shirts, long-sleeved sweatshirts, sweatpants, sweat shorts, shoes, socks, and underwear. The selection of the Roberval facility for the trial is based on its sewing workshop, where inmates can produce their garments.
Quebec’s Domestic Security Minister Ian Lafrenière emphasized that the initiative promotes “social reintegration through employment.” Notably, nine other provinces, one territory, and Correctional Service Canada already mandate inmate uniforms. The government plans to extend this requirement across Quebec based on the outcomes of the pilot project.
In addition to the uniform policy, stricter disciplinary measures are being enacted. Amendments to the Règlement d’application de la Loi sur le système correctionnel du Québec, effective from Sept. 28, will enable detention center staff to report misconduct in a wider range of scenarios, including incidents involving prohibited substances and items delivered by drones. Mailloux labeled drones as a significant challenge that the government has been combatting for years.
Statistics from Quebec’s correctional services network indicate a substantial drone presence around detention centers, with 1,521 drone sightings recorded between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The most recent data reveals 234 drone sightings between April and June of the current year. Mailloux emphasized the global nature of the drone issue, noting that inmate tactics evolve along with technological advancements.
Moreover, disciplinary committees will have the authority to impose harsher penalties for grave misconduct like cellphone smuggling or infrastructural damage. These sanctions may include community service, suspension of canteen privileges, or extended periods of isolation, with a focus on considering inmates’ physical and mental well-being.
The proposed disciplinary enhancements aim to uphold a balance between discipline and inmate welfare in Quebec’s correctional system.