The Tories are increasing the use of the ion scan that tests visitors for trace amounts of drugs. Notorious for its inaccuracy, it means visitors are often prevented from contact with loved ones.
Emily Aspinwall, Stark Raven Media Collective
**This piece is self-contained, with an intro and extro**
Getting visits from friends and family are extremely important to those living in prison. These relationships provide prisoners with connection, hope and have been shown to be vital to prisoner's successful reintegration to the community.
But the prison system doesnât make it easy for visitors. In addition to families having to travel far distances with little financial or community support, visitors are often turned away because they fail the ion scan. The ion scanner is a machine that tests visitors' belongings for trace amounts of drugs and is notorious for its inaccuracy.
The Tories plan on increasing the use of this controversial technology as part of their recent announcement to spend $120 million on security and surveillance measures in the name of keeping drugs outside the prison.
Christie has experienced the ion scan machine first hand when visiting her brother in prison. Christie talks with Stark Raven about her experience and the impact the ion scanner is having on visitors.
More on the Ion Scanner: http://www.justicebehindthewalls.net/news.asp?nid=12
More on the Tories drug policy behind bars: http://www.prisonjustice.ca/starkravenarticles/drugs_in_prison_0908.htmld
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