Commentary: COVID-19 and Unrest at Donnacona

As of the date of publishing this episode, we now know  that 2 federal prisoners have died of COVID-19, almost 300 federal prisoners tested positive (a rate 13 times higher than the general population in Canada), 5 penitentiaries are contaminated with COVID-19, 400 prisoners are being held in extreme conditions in medical isolation, and 100s more in cruel, prolonged solitary confinement-like conditions.  All visits by families, friends, and volunteers have stopped.  Programs have ended and prisoners are not able to make progress on correctional plans.  Temporary absences, both escorted and unescorted, have been suspended so progress toward being paroled for many has ceased.  Both prisoners and correctional staff are likely worried about contracting the virus. It is little wonder that tensions behind bars have increased.  

When tensions are high, is it more important to follow the protocols and attempt to de-escalate disputes before relying on force?

Was the amount of force described by Mr. Farrier more than was appropriate in the circumstances?

If the video tapes confirm that Mr. Farrier had his hands up and was attempting to comply with instructions when he was shot, what accountability and corrective action  is appropriate?

Should the video tapes of such uses of force be made public?