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OTTAWA — Setting up tattoo parlours and needle-exchange programs in penitentiaries would help reduce the spread of hepatitis C, the federal prison service has told the Trudeau government.
A Correctional Service memo obtained under the Access to Information Act advises Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale the proposals “warrant consideration” to round out existing and planned measures to fight hepatitis and HIV in prison.
Prison tattooing and needle-exchange programs for drug users have generated intense controversy over the years and the March 2017 memo says detailed research should be carried out before embarking on a syringe needle program, in particular, “to avoid unintended and negative consequences for inmates.”
In response to questions, the prison service and Goodale’s office said Monday they were exploring options “to better prevent, control and manage infectious diseases” but did not provide details about possible tattoo or needle programs.
The current approach to prevent and control blood-borne and sexually transmitted infections includes screening, testing, education, substance-abuse programs and treatment.