1950 to 1999: Corrections in the late 1900s

Timeline

• 1950: BC Corrections Branch is created
• 1957 to 1975: Haney Correctional Institution
• 1991: Oakalla (Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre) closes
• 1990s: Four regional correctional centres built

Photos

• Oakalla (Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre)
• Fraser Regional Correctional Centre
• Kamloops Regional Correctional Centre
• Prince George Regional Correctional Centre
• Surrey Pretrial Services Centre

Videos

• Stevens on Formation of BC Corrections Branch (Duration: 0:34)
• Retired Officer-In-Charge Lloyd Hopper talks about Haney Correctional Institution (Duration: 2:39)
• Retired staff member Gordon Bains speaks about his first job in at Oakalla (Duration: 2:51)

1950: BC Corrections Branch is created

Until the mid-1900s, individuals in provincial custody in B.C. were managed by the commissioner of police and inspector of gaols. The transfer of policing to the RCMP in 1950 compelled the provincial government to create a separate authority to operate the correctional system.

1957 to 1975: Haney Correctional Institution

Haney Correctional Institution opened in 1957 based on a philosophy of rehabilitation. The goal was to promote positive social values and behaviour, and to provide a training programs consisting of physical, vocational and academic components. The institution closed in 1975.

1991: Oakalla (Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre) closes

After modern replacements were built, Oakalla closed in 1991.

Photos: Oakalla (Lower Mainland Regional Correctional Centre)

1990s: Four regional correctional centres built

Between 1989 and 1996, four regional correctional centres were built in B.C.:

During this period:

• Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre was also renovated
• Burnaby Correctional Centre for Women opened in 1991