Department Ensures the Protection of Children and Youth in Innu Communities

The Honourable Joan Shea, Acting Minister of Child, Youth and Family Services, reaffirmed the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to provide child protection services in Natuashish and Sheshatshiu in a way that ensures the safety and well-being of children and youth while respecting the culture of Innu community members.

Under the Children and Youth Care and Protection Act, the department protects the safety and well-being of children where they are at risk of neglect or maltreatment by a parent. Social workers with the department immediately follow up on every referral that is related to child protection and assess accordingly.

“The safety of children and youth is paramount and the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services provides supports to families in situations where children are at risk of neglect or maltreatment,” said Minister Shea. “However, when necessary, children and youth are removed from the home if the parent is unable to ensure their safety. In all cases, the ultimate goal is always to work towards the child being returned home to their parents care if it is in the best interest of the child.”

Wherever possible, children and youth requiring out of home placement are matched with an appropriate foster family in their home community. Minister Shea also reiterated that in certain situations, out-of-province placement is necessary in order for a child or youth to receive specialized treatment, depending on their specific needs.

The department continues to work with the Sheshatshiu and Mushuau Innu Band Councils to address their concerns on child protection issues in their communities. The department is aware of the protest at the office in Sheshatshiu and strongly encourages the leadership in the community to continue dialogue with departmental officials and work towards a peaceful resolution to re-open the office, given the continued need to ensure the safety of children and youth.

In addition to regular social work service, the Innu Zone Manager, accompanied by a member of CYFS executive, recently met with Innu leadership of both communities and other providers to discuss next steps.

The department is committed to a collaborative approach in ensuring the safety and well-being of children and youth in Natuashish and Sheshatshiu and department officials are currently working with Innu Band Council staff and leadership to explore innovative approaches in an effort to keep more children in their home community.

Memorandums of Understanding were signed with a focus on a Planning Circle process to address specific issues. Preliminary discussions were held in February and a meeting is planned before the end of May.

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2013 04 25                             3:00 p.m.