Federal government announces next step in delivering the Correctional Service of Canada’s new Health Centre of Excellence

September 29, 2026 – Dorchester, New Brunswick

Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy, announced the proponent selected to design and build the Correctional Service of Canada's (CSC) new 155-bed Health Centre of Excellence in Dorchester, New Brunswick. Following a competitive process, EllisDon Corporation will now begin work with CSC and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to finalize the design and build the new facility.  

This important milestone is a concrete step toward the construction of a modern, stand-alone health care facility that will provide a national broad spectrum of bilingual health care services to incarcerated individuals and lead to increased public safety outcomes. It will be built on existing property where CSC is custodian, beside the Dorchester Penitentiary, and replace the aging 53-bed Shepody Healing Centre. The purpose-built centre will also provide CSC employees with a modern workplace designed to better support their safety, wellness, and day-to-day work.

The new Health Centre of Excellence will be a secure “treatment-first” facility, purposefully designed to house and treat federal offenders with enhanced physical and mental health care needs. It will consider several requirements, including:

• safety and security
• physical and mental health care
• staff wellness
• patient wellness, including Indigenous/traditional healing
• the unique needs of women offenders
• sustainability needs and requirements

In support of the Government of Canada's Buy Canadian Policy, PSPC will work closely with the design-builder to prioritize the use of domestic materials where possible. It will maximize economic opportunities for Canadian and local businesses and communities throughout the design and construction phases of the project.

It is anticipated the design and construction phase will bring an estimated 450 jobs to the region. It is estimated the HCoE will employ approximately 300 staff. This will enhance CSC's ability to deliver specialized care, support rehabilitation, and contribute to safer communities.

CSC will continue to engage with Indigenous Rightsholders and Stewards of Land as well as stakeholders, including local residents, health partners and members of the Dorchester community.