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CFSA Review Announced

January 28, 2005 permalink

A formal review of the Child and Family Services Act has been announced by Marie Bountrogianni. Here is the news release:

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January 28, 2005

Ontario Government Asks For Public Input Into Child And Family Services Act

QUEEN'S PARK- The Ontario government is asking members of the public for their thoughts on the Child and Family Services Act, as part of the ministry's ongoing review of key aspects of the child welfare sector, Children and Youth Services Minister Marie Bountrogianni announced today.

Under the legislation, a review of the act must be done every five years.

"Our focus -- always -- is on protecting children and youth at risk and giving them the best chance for future success," said Bountrogianni. "This review of the legislation is an opportunity to address the urgent need to help more of Ontario's 9,000 Crown wards find permanent families."

This technical review of the act will focus on key provisions relating to permanency options for children in care, including adoption.

In addition, the newly established Child Welfare Secretariat has been consulting with the child welfare community during the past year to review key parts of the child protection system. This consultation includes a review of the Child and Family Services Act, court processes and funding, and the day-to-day work of children's aid societies.

Members of the public are invited to contribute to the review in writing by February 28, 2005, through the Ministry of Children and Youth Services website, www.children.gov.on.ca, to cfsareview@mcys.gov.on.ca or to:

Director, CFSA Review
4th Floor, Hepburn Block
80 Grosvenor Street
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 1E9

The review will be completed by March 31, 2005.

"Public input is a critical part of our review, and I hope interested citizens across the province, including children and youth, will take the time to share their ideas," said Bountrogianni.

Addendum. Persons affected by Children's Aid may have an impact by reporting their experiences, and suggestions for improvement, to the minister at one of the addresses above. As with many political processes, results will come from the number of submissions, not their length or quality, so do not be disuaded by the brevity of you material. Critics have produced a CFSA review poster (in pdf format) suggesting deceitfulness in delaying the announcement.

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