Protection of Children in Care (April 26, 2011)
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Mr. Chase: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Over the Easter weekend an adoptive father reported that his child had once again been apprehended.
However, due to the revolving door children and youth catch-and-release system, if the child again submissively played the system for 72 hours, their previous escapes, their previous assessments, their birth family’s history of illness and abuse would not be taken into account. Instead of a secure treatment facility, they’d be back to another easily escapable group home. To the minister: why is a 72-hour-only assessment the equivalent of a get-out-of-child-custody-free card?
The Speaker: The hon. minister.
Mrs. Fritz: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I had an opportunity to discuss this with the member, I think about a week or so ago, and I know from that discussion that this member has become very involved in the situation. I can assure you that the child that you have brought forward is being well cared for, hon. member, and I’m hoping that that helps.
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Chase: Thank you. Three escapes so far. At what point, if ever, in the current catch-and-release Children and Youth Services system does a child’s cumulative assessment file get opened and acted upon?
The Speaker: The hon. minister.
Mrs. Fritz: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our workers do provide supports and resources and services to the child, to the youth, to the family, and files regarding children’s services and supports are kept open when necessary by workers. I can assure you once again, hon. member – I know that you explained to me that this has become very personal for you – that this child is being well cared for.
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Chase: Thank you. I very much hope so.
How is it in the best interests of a child or their parents to re-volve through the system and land back onto the street without receiving sustained treatment or support?
The Speaker: The hon. minister
Mrs. Fritz: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As I indicated previously in the Assembly about this young person, hon. member, our very senior staff are working closely with that person, with the family, and they are receiving support that’s exemplary through our services. I would be pleased to discuss this further with you once again if you’d like to. As I said, I know how important this is to you.
Alberta Hansard, April 26, 2011