Special advisory has 85 suggestions to improve indigenous child welfare in B.C.
VANCOUVER — A final report from a special adviser on indigenous children in care in British Columbia offers 85 recommendations on how to overhaul the aboriginal child-welfare system in the province.
Grand Chief Ed John’s report calls for reducing the need for indigenous kids and youth to come into care, increasing support services that help keep families together and enabling greater access to legal services.
It also urges a more equitable funding formula between the province and federal government, an increase in early intervention services and more ministry staff for First Nations communities.
The portion of aboriginal kids in B.C. care has increased over the past decade, from 50 per cent in 2006 to 61 per cent this year, and Premier Christy Clark’s government has faced fierce criticism on the issue.