Faqiri family demands answers on implementing coroner inquest recommendations [Video]

The family of a mentally ill man who died in a provincial jail is demanding to know if the Ontario government has implemented any recommendations that came out of a coroner’s inquest, saying they believe nothing has been done.

Several dozen civil liberty and mental health organizations have also called for action in a letter to Premier Doug Ford and Solicitor General Michael Kerzner following the death of Soleiman Faqiri and the subsequent inquest.

In December 2023, inquest jurors issued 57 recommendations meant to improve oversight of the correctional service and access to mental health care within it.

They also ruled Faqiri’s death on Dec. 15, 2016 to be a homicide.

It is unclear if the province has implemented any of the jury’s recommendations. Yusuf Faqiri, Soleiman’s brother, said it appears the government has done nothing. No charges have been laid in his brother’s death.

Kerzner did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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