NEEDLE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS IN PRISONS

   OTTAWA - The federal prison service plans to introduce needle exchange programs in a bid to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases among inmates.
However, Correctional Service officials have raised concerns about syringe needles being used as weapons.
The Union of Canadian Correctional Officers said the proposed new program "represents a dangerous turning point" and accused the prison service of closing its eyes to drug trafficking in prisons.
The initiative "poses a real threat for correctional officers and will put the lives of many inmates at risk," the union added.
In its announcement, the Correctional Service said the safety and security of staff, the public and inmates are of utmost importance.