Parliamentary secretary to health minister to consult on child advocate

Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Community Services for Children's Interests and MHA - Cartwright-L'Anse au Clair, will hold a consultation with key stakeholders on the child advocate in Happy Valley-Goose Bay on Thursday, October 4.

"Consultations with community groups and professionals who work with children and youth have already taken place on the island portion of the province," said Ms. Jones. "We want to ensure that community groups and health professionals who work in Labrador and who are quite familiar with the needs and challenges which face the children and youth of Labrador also have their input into the scope of the child advocate and the legislation."

The office of the child advocate is a commitment of the government of Premier Roger Grimes which was made in the Throne Speech last spring. Since that time, various consultations have taken place among several different government departments and the community. Government expects legislation on the child advocate will be introduced in the House of Assembly during the fall sitting.

"By bringing together a cross-section of representatives of health, education and community groups, and the aboriginal communities in Labrador, we will ensure that the views of all parties are considered as government moves forward with this most important initiative," said Ms. Jones. "They will certainly add information to what should be included into the scope and mandate of the child advocate."

The meeting will take place at the community board room of the Labrador Health Centre from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

Media contact: Kelly Foss, Communications, (709) 729-6670.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Ms. Jones will be available at 12 noon following the consultation for media          interviews on this issue.

2001 10 02                                   1:35 p.m.