Comments reveal ‘the real Doug Ford,’ says MPP
Inquest jurors learned that 53 per cent of inmates at Thunder Bay Jail identify as Indigenous; however, some suggested that number could be as high as 60 to 75 per cent. The MPP criticized Ford’s remarks. “When I hear that, his thought is that we [Indigenous people] do not deserve anything good. We do not deserve anything nice,” Mamakwa told on Thursday. “To me, that’s just what he thinks of First Nations, which is not surprising. That’s the real Doug Ford.”Premier’s office highlights collaboration with Indigenous partners
When asked for clarification on Ford’s comments, the premier’s office sent an email statement to on Thursday afternoon saying the province is investing $3 billion for new jail beds and additional corrections staff. “Dangerous, repeat offenders belong behind bars and to keep them off the streets, our government is expanding correctional capacity across the province,” it stated. As construction continues at the new correctional complex, Ontario “is working with Indigenous partners to enhance culturally responsive services and supports in correctional facilities.” Correctional staff receive Indigenous awareness training developed with input from Indigenous advisers according to the premier’s office. People in custody also have access to various supports related to mental health, addictions and social services.
First Nation leaders call for closure of Thunder Bay JailThe Thunder Bay Jail has faced long-standing criticism for overcrowding and harsh conditions since it opened a century ago. Following a coroner’s inquiry into Kevin Mamakwa’s death there on June 2, 2020, First Nation leaders are renewing their calls for shutting down this outdated facility.Lindsay Martin serves as executive director of Elizabeth Fry Society of Northwestern Ontario-an organization focused on helping women and gender-diverse individuals involved with criminal justice systems.
Mentioning worries over potential human rights violations within the jail system Martin remarked that Ford’s comments “come from a place of privilege; someone who clearly doesn’t grasp what’s happening within incarcerated communities.”
“I think this stigma starts right from those at top levels looking down upon those struggling due largely because there are insufficient funds or resources available,” she said.Lindsay Martin executive director Elizabeth Fry Society NW Ontario spoke out against Premier’s remarks (Sarah Law/CBC)
Toward Tuesday’s conclusion regarding jury recommendations around improving mental health assistance along with cultural support concerning addictions Mr. Ford responded: “I’m all for it.”
“Any way I can help people if it comes down drugs or alcohol – I’m all in.”</P
A call for enhanced rehabilitation support for inmates</h2 Mamakwa noted how this statement conflicts with other things he said about keeping “the bad guys” locked up.
“It’s almost like he’s talking out both sides,” said this NDP representative.
Instead of increasing prison beds Martin urged provincial investment should focus more directly onto rehabilitation programs.
“When you’re released back into homelessness without any kind-of support following your incarceration-and funding being slashed elsewhere-where else can these folks go? It feels like they want this revolving door situation,” she continued.
“Their answer towards lack-of social safety nets seems strictly limited by building more prisons or maintaining older structures rather than addressing root causes effectively-that mindset creates huge future ramifications.”
-Martin emphasized critically considering how powerful figures discuss topics like criminal justice matters.”I think that [Ford] simply feeds off rhetoric suggesting communities feel increasingly unsafe overall; putting people behind bars isn’t truly about public safety-it’s essentially regarding power dynamics.”
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