The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Child, Youth and Family Services:

National Social Work Month Recognized

I rise today to recognize the significant contributions of social workers across Newfoundland and Labrador during National Social Work Month.

Social work is an established profession in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 1,350 registered social workers practising throughout the province. Within the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services, these professionals work with individuals, families and communities in a variety of program areas including regulated child care, protective intervention, youth corrections, adoptions and foster care.

This year’s theme for National Social Work Month is Social Workers for Dignity and Inclusion: Upholding Human Rights. The theme is extremely important and succinctly encompasses their overall role.

Social workers, in particular child protection social workers, are sometimes portrayed negatively with respect to the work they perform, when on the contrary, they are working on behalf of the public interest to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth.

Since assuming the role as Minister for the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services a little over two months ago, I have been out meeting social workers within the department, and they are some of the most caring, socially-conscious people I have ever met. They are working hard on the front lines, making difficult decisions in the best interest of our most vulnerable population.

The general public isn’t always fully informed about the imperative role of social workers, and I encourage everyone, particularly during National Social Work Month, to learn more about these highly ethical and skilled professionals.

As Minister for the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services, I would like to take this opportunity to commend social workers for their dedication and commitment to the children and youth of Newfoundland and Labrador. They certainly play an essential role in society, and March provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate their important contributions to our province.

2011 03 24             1:55 p.m.