Inmate dies in Clarenville women's prison, RCMP investigating

Aninmate atthe Correctional Centre for Women in Clarenvilledied in the early hours ofSaturday morning.

The inmate was sent to hospital, but diedshortly after. Sources say her mental health was a factor.

In an emailed statement to CBC News, the Department of Justice and Public Safety confirmed the death and said the RCMP are investigating.

The prison has been criticized in the past forbeing overcrowded, much like the men's prison in St. John's, and union leaders have spoken out on the strain it places on inmates and guards.

The woman's name has not been released to the public.