Closure of the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth – is not Government for the People

Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh expressed shock and deep concern of the closure of the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth announced by the Provincial government in their Fall Economic Statement released on Thursday.

The repeal of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth Act, 2007 without warning, without public consultation is deeply troubling and leaves Ontario’s most vulnerable children and youth without a voice.  Irwin Elman, as the Provincial Advocate has been the championing voice to raise concerns and issues on behalf of children and youth in care of a children’s aid society, children with disabilities, families and his Office has been a critical resource for many to navigate and advocate on behalf of their children.

“Government for the people means everyone, our children and youth today have been disempowered by the unilateral decision of the Provincial government to close the Office of the Provincial Advocate,” stated Ogichidaa Kavanaugh.  The Office had exercised key role in ensuring oversight and bringing attention to children and youth issues who were within government systems of care – health, education, child welfare and youth justice and after this announcement there is a critical void.  “ I would ask the Province to reconsider their decision, balancing a budget cannot be borne by our most vulnerable, stated Ogichidaa Kavanaugh.

 

For more information:
Janine Seymour
Political Advisor
Office of the Ogichidaa
1.807.464.1261