Office of the Child and Youth Advocate
March 02, 2017

The Child and Youth Advocate Speaks on the Issue of Foster Children in Labrador

The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate recognizes that foster homes in Labrador is a significant issue. Jackie Lake Kavanagh, Child and Youth Advocate, is currently in Labrador this week on a previously scheduled visit, meeting with community leaders, senior officials, service providers and youth. Lake Kavanagh said “there is a strong sentiment in many discussions that there must be more done when children cannot remain in their own homes and to keep young people in their communities and culture. There is a willingness within the communities to develop options to make things better. This was particularly clear in our meeting with Chief Hart of Sheshatshiu and Deputy Minister Michelle Kinney of Nunatsiavut.” We encourage the Province to work with Aboriginal communities to explore other solutions and associated supports. Article 20 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child provides every child who is removed from their parents care with the right to alternative care that respects their language, culture and religion. Lake Kavanagh further stated “the current situation where children are removed from their communities and culture, sometimes for prolonged periods of time, makes it very challenging for these children to be reintegrated.”

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Media contact:

Janice Mullins Office of the Child and Youth Advocate 709-753-3888 janicemullins@ocya.nl.ca

2017 03 02                              2:15 p.m.