Law360 Canada (June 18, 2026, 4:20 PM EDT) -- Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has appointed Valerie Phillips as interim correctional investigator of Canada, effective June 18, 2026.

According to Public Safety Canada, Phillips has more than 20 years of experience in human rights and administrative law. She has served as the executive director and general counsel at the Office of the Correctional Investigator (OCI) since December 2024.

The correctional investigator leads the OCI by investigating complaints, reviewing correctional practices and making recommendations to ensure the fair treatment of inmates. Phillips’s appointment is for a term of up to one year, or until a permanent appointment is made.

“I look forward to working with Valerie Phillips … to ensure that Canada’s federal correctional system remains safe, fair, humane and effective,” said Anandasangaree in a statement.

The OCI is an independent ombuds for federally sentenced offenders and provides oversight of the Correctional Service of Canada.

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