Province proposes changes to improve Indigenous child welfare

Apr 24, 2018 | 11:32 AM

VICTORIA — The provincial government is proposing legislation that would help cut down on the high rate of Indigenous children in government care.

Children and Family Development Minister Katrine Conroy says the legislation would give Indigenous communities a greater say in child-welfare decisions to help keep their children out of care and connected to their family, communities and culture.

The ministry is currently only allowed to reach out to a child’s Indigenous community with the parent’s consent or to ensure the child’s safety and well-being — but the legislation would allow it to share more information right from the start and work together on plans to keep First Nations children in their communities.

The proposed changes were recommended by Grand Chief Edward John following his review of a child welfare system where 63 percent of those in care are Indigenous.