Federal government should immediately comply with Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ruling: Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth

TORONTO, Oct. 31, 2016 /CNW/ - The Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth urges the Federal Government of Canada to comply with the legal orders issued by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and provide immediate funding to child welfare services on reserves, as well as adopt Jordan's Principle.

"On our visits to many of Ontario's northern communities, my staff and I have witnessed the struggles that so many children, youth and their families go through first-hand," said Irwin Elman, Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth. "Additional funding alone will not fundamentally change the situation for them and further work is needed, but immediate investments have a chance to alleviate some of the immediate suffering endured by children and their families."

The Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth supports a solution-driven dialogue with First Nations, including leadership, Elders, young people and service providers that will lead to innovative, culturally-anchored ways of protecting children and supporting families. The federal government, among others, may have a role in assisting and contributing to that dialogue, says Elman.

"A dialogue about children and families will require respect, trust and partnership in order for healing and change to occur. Living up to the verdict and compliance order of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal will engender that respect, particularly after such a hard fought battle," said Elman.

About the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth

The Office of the Provincial Advocate reports directly to the Legislature and provides an independent voice for children and youth, including children with special needs and First Nations children. The advocates receive and respond to concerns from children, youth and families who are seeking or receiving services under the Child and Family Services Act and the Education Act (Provincial and Demonstration Schools).

The Office is guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and has a strong commitment to youth involvement. For more information, visit: www.provincialadvocate.on.ca. For updates, read the Advocate's Blog and follow us on https://www.youtube.com/user/ProvincialAdvocate/featuredTwitter and Facebook.

SOURCE Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth

Media Contact: Akihiko Tse, Communications, Media Relations Coordinator, (416)-325-5994, [email protected], Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth