The Path Home: Release Planning Kit 

Official title: The Path Home: Release Planning Kit - Sections 84 and 84.1 of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act

Catalogue Number: PS84-263/2026E-PDF
ISBN: 978-1-100-00208-8
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Public Safety Canada, 2026

Alternative format

Mandate

The Indigenous Initiatives Sector of the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) has a mandate to create partnerships and strategies that enhance the safe and timely reintegration of Indigenous offenders into the community, while ensuring that Indigenous offenders have access to culturally responsive Indigenous interventions. CSC works together with Indigenous communities and organizations throughout the country to enhance their role in the correctional process and to support the healing and reintegration of Indigenous offenders. This collaboration includes various initiatives that respect Indigenous cultures, traditions and practices.

Beginning the journey

The laws governing federal corrections include specific elements that encourage Indigenous communities and organizations to have a voice in the release process. Section 84 of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (CCRA) gives Indigenous communities and organizations the opportunity to become active partners in the release planning and reintegration of Indigenous offenders.

Release planning supported by the provisions of sections 84 and 84.1 should involve a flexible and individualized approach, with meaningful consultation focused on the unique circumstances of each offender. Collaboration between the offender, the Indigenous community or organization, and the Case Management Team (CMT), is fundamental for successful Section 84 implementation.

This guide serves as a tool to support collaboration throughout the release planning process and the offender’s return to the community.

Section 84

Section 84 of the CCRA provides a framework for involving Indigenous governing bodies in the release planning and integration of Indigenous offenders. It states:
“If an inmate expresses an interest in being released to an Indigenous community, the Service shall, with the inmate’s consent, give the community’s Indigenous governing body;

1. adequate notice of the inmate’s parole review or statutory release date, as the case may be; and
2. an opportunity to propose a plan for the inmate’s release and integration into that community.”

Indigenous governing bodies may include councils, governments or other entities authorized to act on behalf of an Indigenous group, community or people that holds rights recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

In the Section 84 process, CSC uses collective terminology to refer to Indigenous governing bodies as Indigenous communities and organizations.

These communities and organizations play an integral role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of Indigenous offenders following incarceration. Since most federal offenders will eventually return to the community, engaging Indigenous partners in the release process is essential, as a strong and effective community focus significantly enhances reintegration outcomes.

Release planning begins the moment an offender enters a CSC facility.

Section 84.1: Long-term supervision order

Some offenders may be subject to a long-term supervision order (LTSO), which are imposed by the court for a period of up to ten (10) years. The LTSO begins when the offender has finished serving all sentences for offences for which they have been convicted. An offender subject to an LTSO is supervised in accordance with the CCRA.

Section 84.1 of the CCRA places the same legal responsibility on CSC as section 84 does, when an offender who is subject to an LTSO expresses an interest in being supervised in an Indigenous community or with the support of an Indigenous organization.

Incarceration and release

While incarcerated, offenders are encouraged to address the causes and issues that led to their criminal behaviour in preparation for release.

CSC uses a unique approach for Indigenous corrections known as the Indigenous Continuum of Care. The Indigenous Continuum of Care ensures culturally responsive Indigenous interventions are available to Indigenous offenders, which includes access to Elders or Spiritual Advisors for counselling, spiritual teachings, and guidance.

Conditional release allows offenders to serve part of their sentence in the community, under supervision, with support and specific conditions. Before an offender is released into the community, the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) considers all relevant and available information to assess an offender’s risk of reoffending. This assessment includes, but is not limited to, evaluating an offender’s background, contributing factors, offence details, institutional behaviour, progress in correctional programs, release history, risk assessments, victim concerns, and the offender’s proposed release plan, including available community support.

The protection of society remains the primary consideration in every release decision.

The path to reintegration: A snapshot of a federal sentence

Sentencing

Following conviction, the offender receives their sentence imposed by the courts. Offenders go to a penitentiary for sentences two years or longer.

Incarceration

Each offender is supervised and guided through the correctional process by a CMT. An intake assessment and security classification are completed. A Correctional Plan is developed in collaboration with the offender, serving as a roadmap for their sentence. Where appropriate, this plan incorporates culturally responsive Indigenous interventions to support healing and help reduce risk. Correctional Plans are individualized and structured to meet each offender’s specific risks and needs. Throughout their incarceration, offenders work on addressing their risk factors.

Release planning

Before being considered for release, the offender and their CMT must prepare a detailed release plan and supervision strategy to address outstanding risk, support reintegration, and ensure a safe transition to the community. This includes information about where they would like to be released, the support network they have available, employment or education plans, as well as any other activities supporting their reintegration into the community.

Parole Board of Canada decision

Risk of re-offending is assessed and a strategy for the offender's transition to the community is developed. Either a positive or a negative recommendation is sent to PBC for decisions under its authority.

Community supervision

Upon release, offenders are supervised in the community and required to comply with specific conditions, while receiving support to help manage risk and promote reintegration.

End of sentence

At the end of the sentence (Warrant Expiry Date), CSC and PBC no longer have the authority to impose release conditions or provide supervision, except in cases involving an LTSO.

Long-term supervision order (LTSO)

An LTSO requires CSC to supervise and support an offender in the community, for up to 10 years after their sentence ends.

Types of releases

Most federal offenders serve part of their sentence in institutions, while the remainder of their time is served in the community, where they must follow certain conditions and are supervised by Parole Officers. Under current legislation, there are different types of releases for offenders:

Temporary absence

A temporary absence (escorted, unescorted or work release) allows an offender to be away from the institution for a variety of reasons. In the federal system, decision-making authority for temporary absences is shared between PBC and CSC.

These may be granted for reasons including medical, administrative, community service, family contact, parental responsibility, personal development (such as, participating in ceremonies) and compassionate grounds.

Day parole

Day parole allows offenders to serve part of their sentence in the community, while supervised. This type of release prepares an offender for release on full parole or statutory release by allowing the offender to participate in community-based activities. Offenders on day parole must return nightly to an institution, community-based residential facility, or to another location.

Offenders become eligible for day parole after serving the longer of either:

• 6 months before eligibility for full parole or after serving 6 months - if serving sentences of two years or more
• 3 years before eligibility for full parole or after serving 3 years - if serving life or indeterminate sentences

Full parole

Full parole also allows offenders to serve part of their sentence in the community, while supervised. Full parole normally follows successful completion of day parole. Under full parole, offenders do not have to return nightly to an institution and typically reside in a private residence.

Offenders (except those serving life sentences for murder) may apply for full parole after serving the lesser of either:

• a third of their sentence, or
• 7 years, whichever is less

Offenders serving life sentences for first-degree murder may apply for full parole, after serving 25 years. Dates for offenders serving life sentences for second-degree murder are set between 10 and 25 years by the court.

Statutory release 

Statutory release allows federally sentenced offenders to serve the final third of their sentence in the community. CSC supervises them and imposes conditions of release similar to full parole. Offenders serving life or indeterminate sentences are not eligible.

Offenders who are on statutory release either did not apply for release on parole or were denied release on parole.

Legislation mandates statutory release, meaning it is automatic rather than conditional and is not granted by PBC. However, PBC may issue a detention order to prevent an offender’s release on statutory release when there are reasonable grounds to believe that the offender is likely to commit an offence causing serious harm or death, a sexual offence involving a child, or a serious drug offence. When a detention order is issued, the offender remains incarcerated past their statutory release.

Release on expiry of sentence 

Release on expiry of sentence is the point when the offender’s sentence ends (warrant expiry date), and CSC no longer has jurisdiction over them. At this stage, the offender is released without conditions, unless they are subject to an LTSO.

It applies to offenders considered too dangerous to return to the community under statutory release, and in some cases to those who were previously released on parole or statutory release but were suspended due to an increase in risk. 

Sentence timeline

^{Footnote 1}  (general rule)

Benefits of the Section 84 release planning process

Research has shown that Indigenous offenders with a Section 84 release plan are more likely to complete their supervision successfully compared to those without one. The success of these releases is linked to the inclusion of cultural components, community connections, and accountability through an offender-driven approach.

One of the most meaningful elements of the Section 84 process is the opportunity for the offender to build relationships with the Indigenous community or organization before release, which can ease the transition process from institution to community. These early connections help foster a sense of belonging and support.

A release supported by the provisions of section 84 or 84.1 can offer the offender a path back to the community that is guided by shared values, cultural identity, and clearly defined community expectations. This process strengthens positive relationships and may contribute to public safety.

The aim for all those involved is to work together to promote healing, cultural continuity, and community well-being.

The Section 84 process

Section 84 release planning involves collaboration between the offender, the Indigenous community or organization, and the Case Management Team (CMT). The process includes the following steps:

• The CMT informs Indigenous offenders about Section 84. If the offender is interested, they begin the process by contacting the Indigenous community or organization to request support, through the assistance of their CMT
• A representative of CSC, typically an Indigenous Community Development Officer, further establishes contact with the Indigenous community or organization. They, along with the Parole Officer and other applicable CMT members, discuss case dynamics, including any victim related concerns, to assist the community or organization in determining their willingness and capacity to extend support to the offender
• If the community or organization agrees to participate, they work alongside the offender and the CMT to co-develop a release plan. This plan reflects shared values and identifies available supports. The resulting information is then incorporated into the offender’s release planning documentation
• The CMT presents the proposed release plan and its recommendations to PBC, who decides whether the release supported by the provisions of section 84 or 84.1 will go forward

The offender’s role

A release supported by the provisions of section 84 or 84.1 is offender-driven. Offenders must:

• let their Parole Officer know of their interest in developing a Section 84 release plan; this should be done as early as possible, and can occur at any point during their sentence
• sign a consent for disclosure of personal information form to allow the Indigenous community or organization to receive information about their case;
• show commitment to their Correctional Plan and Healing Plan (if applicable)
• initiate and maintain communication with the Indigenous community or organization, with the assistance of the Indigenous Community Development Officer and Parole Officer, to begin the process and, if the community or organization is willing to participate, work collaboratively with them and their CMT to develop a release plan; and
• strive to fulfill the expectations outlined in the release plan throughout the release period

The Indigenous community’s or organization’s role

Indigenous communities and organizations are at the centre of the Section 84 process. Their involvement is not only procedural, it reflects a commitment to culturally grounded reintegration and collective healing. Once contacted, they review relevant case information to assess their willingness and capacity to support the offender. This may involve internal consultations and consideration of community values, safety, and available resources. Shared information may include, but is not limited to, the offender’s criminal history, activities while incarcerated, available community supports, reasons for seeking involvement, and details of the proposed release plan. The community or organization is asked to respond promptly so the offender can be informed of their decision and make appropriate plans for their release.

If they choose to participate, their contributions go beyond planning. They collaborate with the offender and the CMT to co-develop a release plan that reflects shared values and community-based supports. Their insights help shape a plan that is both meaningful and realistic, ensuring it aligns with the needs of the offender and the needs and priorities of the community or organization. Communities or organizations are encouraged to identify specific services and resources available to support the offender’s needs, such as cultural guidance, living arrangements, employment opportunities, or mentorship.

If a release supported by the provisions of section 84 or 84.1 goes forward, the community or organization continues to play a vital role. They provide ongoing support to the offender and work closely with the community Parole Officer to help uphold the integrity of the release plan. One key aspect of this is acting as collateral contacts—trusted individuals or groups who maintain regular communication with the Parole Officer and provide updates on the offender’s progress. This role helps ensure that the release plan remains responsive and accountable. Collateral contacts may share observations, flag concerns, and offer culturally relevant guidance, contributing to a more holistic supervision approach. Their presence reinforces the community’s or organization’s investment in the offender’s success. Their sustained involvement is key to fostering accountability, healing, and successful reintegration.

Frequently asked questions

What elements need to be included in a release plan

To contribute to a holistic release plan, Indigenous communities or organizations should consider the following:

• What programs or resources are available (such as, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, Healing Circles, mental health workers, addictions workers, health care providers)? Will these options meet the offender’s needs? How will they be made available to the offender
• Are there community activities and ceremonies that the offender would benefit from attending
• What meaningful learning and livelihood opportunities exist that could support the offender’s reintegration? For example, are there educational programs, mentorship opportunities, or traditional roles such as hunting, trapping, fishing, or craftwork? Are there local industries or community initiatives that offer employment or skill-building? How might these be made accessible and relevant to the offender’s goals and strengths
• If the offender cannot find employment, how will they meet their financial needs
• Where and with whom will the offender live when they return to the community
• Are there community supports whom the offender could contact regularly before they are released to begin establishing a circle of support
• Are there concerns about the offender’s return to the community that relate to victims? If so, are there any methods that could be used to assist in mitigating these concerns
• Are there safety issues that concern the offender? If so, are there any methods that could be used to assist in mitigating these concerns
• What are the expectations of the offender’s behaviour in the community and compliance with the proposed plan? What accountability measures are necessary
• Who will act as a liaison to provide collateral feedback to the community Parole Officer

Does CSC consider the offender’s Indigenous social history

Yes. CSC acknowledges that Indigenous offenders may have experienced unique historical and systemic factors, such as the intergenerational impacts of residential schools, displacement from traditional lands, and systemic discrimination, that have contributed to their involvement in the criminal justice system. The CMT takes these factors, referred to as Indigenous social history, into account in all decisions made throughout the offender’s sentence.

This consideration helps ensure that Indigenous offenders are offered culturally responsive Indigenous interventions that support healing and reintegration. These may include access to Elder services, participation in Pathways Initiatives, engagement in traditional ceremonies, and the development of a Section 84 release plan in collaboration with Indigenous communities or organizations.

Can the offender be escorted temporarily into the community before release

Yes. Provided that all legal and security requirements are met, an offender may be granted a temporary absence, either escorted or unescorted, into the community prior to release. This allows both the offender and the Indigenous community or organization to collaboratively prepare for a successful reintegration.

These temporary absences can support culturally responsive processes, such as taking part in ceremony in the community. These gatherings provide an opportunity to reflect on the offender’s healing journey within the institution and to identify the supports that will be needed upon release. In some cases, multiple temporary absences may be arranged to support a gradual and meaningful transition.

Can the community or organization participate in the parole hearing

Yes. PBC welcomes observers at parole hearings. There is a formal process to apply to attend as an observer, which must be completed in advance. Offenders may also request to have an assistant present. This could be a community member who has been actively involved in their release planning.

In addition, offenders can request a Culturally Responsive Hearing, during which a PBC Elder or Cultural Advisor is present to provide cultural context and support to Board members during the decision-making process.

Under certain conditions, a Community-Assisted Hearing may also be held. This type of hearing is available to Indigenous offenders (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis) who have a Section 84 release plan and have demonstrated a meaningful commitment to an Indigenous way of life. Unlike traditional hearings held in institutions, Community-Assisted Hearings are usually held in the community where the offender plans to live. Members of the Indigenous community or organization who are involved in the release planning process may also participate in the hearing.

It is important to note that the decision-making criteria used in Culturally Responsive and Community-Assisted Hearings are the same as those applied in all other PBC hearings. However, the format of these hearings may differ. For example, they may be conducted in a circle.

What happens after release

If a release supported by the provisions of section 84 or 84.1 goes forward, CSC will notify the Indigenous community or organization involved. The community or organization will then work in close collaboration with the offender and the community Parole Officer to support the offender’s reintegration.

Ongoing, two-way communication will be maintained throughout the release period. This includes regular updates and consultations regarding the offender’s progress and any challenges that may arise. The Indigenous community or organization will have the opportunity to provide feedback and, if necessary, propose adjustments to the release plan to ensure it remains responsive to the needs of both the offender and the community.

If an Indigenous community or organization has made a Section 84 arrangement with one offender, are they obligated to accept applications for others in the future

No. Releases supported by the provisions of section 84 and 84.1 of the CCRA are considered on a case-by-case basis. An Indigenous community or organization is under no obligation to accept future applications, even if they have previously supported this type of release. Each request is voluntary and based on the community’s willingness and capacity to provide support at that time.

Is funding available

CSC is committed to supporting the involvement of Indigenous communities and organizations in the conditional release process of Indigenous offenders. When a community or organization lacks the necessary resources to support an offender’s reintegration, CSC can collaborate with them to identify and explore potential funding opportunities and connect them with available supports and services.

Who to contact for further information

Atlantic Region
Indigenous Initiatives, Regional Headquarters
1045 Main Street
2nd Floor
Moncton NB  E1C 1H1
Telephone: 506-851-6313

Quebec Region
Indigenous Initiatives, Regional Headquarters
400-4 Laval Place
Laval QC  H7N 5Y3
Telephone: 450-478-5933

Ontario and Nunavut Region
Indigenous Initiatives, Regional Headquarters
PO Box 1174
445 Union Street West
Kingston ON  K7L 4Y8
Telephone: 613-536-4243

Prairie Region
Indigenous Initiatives, Regional Headquarters
3427 Faithfull Avenue
Saskatoon SK  S7K 8H6
Telephone: 306-659-9300

Pacific Region
Indigenous Initiatives, Regional Headquarters
33991 Gladys Avenue, Unit 100
Abbotsford BC  V2S 2E8
Telephone:  604-870-2500

National Headquarters
Indigenous Initiatives Sector
340 Laurier Avenue West
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0P9
Telephone: 613-992-5891