The Quebec government is set to implement new strategies to prevent contraband from entering its detention 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 wear standardized uniforms starting in September.
According to a news release from the Public Security Ministry, this move aims to streamline the search process, differentiate inmates from staff and visitors, and eliminate any indications of affiliation with criminal groups that could potentially incite violence. Presently, detainees in Quebec detention centers wear their own clothes, but this has led to issues, as revealed by Isabelle Mailloux, the director of the Rèseau correctionnel de Montréal. Mailloux highlighted that inmates have exploited their clothing to smuggle illicit substances such as drugs, often concealed in clothing seams or shoes, with some resorting to more intricate methods like saturating clothes with illegal substances.
The introduction of uniforms is part of a broader initiative to enhance security in Quebec’s detention facilities, with the government having invested $35 million in 2023 towards this goal. The uniform will comprise basic and comfortable attire like cotton-polyester T-shirts, long-sleeved sweatshirts, sweatpants, shorts, shoes, socks, and underwear. The choice of the Roberval facility for the pilot project was influenced by its sewing workshop, where inmates will be able to craft their pants.
Minister of Domestic Security Ian Lafrenière emphasized that the program promotes “social reintegration through employment.” Currently, nine provinces, one territory, and Correctional Service Canada mandate inmate uniforms, and the government intends to expand this practice across Quebec based on the outcomes of the pilot project.
Additionally, the government is implementing stricter disciplinary actions by amending the Règlement d’application de la Loi sur le système correctionnel du Québec, effective from September 28. These changes will empower detention center staff to report misconduct in a wider range of scenarios, including the delivery of prohibited items by drones. Mailloux described drones as a persistent issue that authorities have been combatting, citing statistics showing 1,521 drone sightings in Quebec detention centers between April 2025 and March 2026, with 234 additional sightings between April and June of the current year.
The revised regulations will authorize disciplinary committees to impose harsher penalties for severe infractions like smuggling cellphones or damaging property. These sanctions may involve community service, suspension of canteen privileges, or extended periods of isolation, all while considering the well-being of inmates both physically and mentally.