The Quebec government is implementing fresh strategies to prevent contraband from entering its correctional facilities. A 12-month trial initiative will mandate inmates at the Roberval Detention Centre, located 350 kilometers northeast of Montreal, to wear standardized attire starting in September.
According to the Public Security Ministry, the move to eliminate personal clothing aims to streamline searches, differentiate inmates from staff and visitors, and eliminate indicators of affiliation with criminal groups, which can incite violence. Currently, individuals in Quebec detention centers wear their own clothes, but Isabelle Mailloux, the director of the Réseau correctionnel de Montréal, highlighted issues arising from inmates using their garments to smuggle illicit items such as drugs.
Mailloux emphasized the need for enhanced security within Quebec’s detention facilities. This initiative aligns with the government’s $35 million investment in 2023 to bolster security measures. The new inmate uniform will comprise basic and comfortable clothing like cotton-polyester T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, sweat shorts, shoes, socks, and underwear. The Roberval facility was selected for the pilot due to its on-site sewing workshop for inmates to craft their pants.
Minister Ian Lafrenière mentioned that the initiative promotes social reintegration through employment. The government plans to evaluate the pilot project results before deciding on the universal implementation of inmate uniforms across Quebec.
Additionally, the government is enhancing disciplinary measures by amending the Règlement d’application de la Loi sur le système correctionnel du Québec. These amendments, effective from September 28, broaden the scope for staff to report misconduct, including incidents related to prohibited substances and items delivered by drones. Mailloux stressed that drones have been a persistent challenge, with 1,521 drone sightings at Quebec detention centers between April 2025 and March 2026. The government is taking steps to address this issue in alignment with evolving inmate tactics driven by technological advancements.
The revised disciplinary system allows for harsher penalties for severe misconduct, such as smuggling cellphones or causing infrastructure damage. Sanctions may include community service, canteen purchase suspensions, or extended periods of isolation, prioritizing the physical and mental well-being of inmates.