The Quebec government announced a twelve‑month pilot program at the Roberval Detention Centre that will require all inmates to wear uniforms. Officials say the measure is intended to reduce the flow of contraband into the province's correctional facilities.
Under the pilot, which began on August 13, 2026, every detainee at the Roberval centre will be issued a standardized outfit that must be worn at all times while inside the institution. The uniform policy is designed to make it more difficult for prohibited items to be concealed on a person’s body, thereby limiting opportunities for smuggling.
The initiative comes as part of a broader effort by Quebec authorities to find new methods for curbing illegal items such as drugs, weapons and other contraband that are routinely introduced into prisons. Provincial officials have indicated that the uniform requirement is one component of a multi‑pronged strategy that includes increased searches, surveillance upgrades and staff training.
Roberval Detention Centre, located in the town of Roberval, will serve as the test site for the program. After the twelve‑month trial period, the government plans to evaluate the impact of the uniform policy on contraband incidents and decide whether to expand the approach to other facilities across the province.
The pilot does not alter any other aspects of daily life for inmates, and the government has not disclosed additional enforcement details. By standardizing clothing, authorities hope to create a more controlled environment that discourages the hidden transport of illegal items. The outcome of the trial will inform future policies aimed at enhancing security and safety within Quebec's correctional system.