The Ontario government has announced plans to expand the Quinte Detention Centre in Napanee, marking a significant step in modernizing the province’s adult correctional system.
The expansion, which will increase capacity by more than 23 per cent, includes 66 new beds for female offenders and additional programming spaces. This upgrade will bring the facility’s total capacity to over 300 beds.
“Our government is enhancing Ontario’s adult correctional system by providing the tools and infrastructure needed to protect communities and ensure staff safety,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.
Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma echoed this sentiment, crediting Premier Ford’s leadership in prioritizing critical infrastructure upgrades. She emphasized that the new spaces would improve inmate reintegration programs while ensuring residents are safe from dangerous offenders.
Chad Oldfield, Co-chair of the Ministry Employee Relations Committee for OPSEU, praised the initiative. “These additional beds and hiring of full-time staff will help manage rising inmate counts and improve safety within institutions,” he said.
Shortlisted applicants for the expansion will be invited to respond to a Request for Proposals (RFP) expected in summer 2025, ensuring progress on the project.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)