A B.C. Children's Representative report that criticizes attempts to restrict an Indigenous woman's parental access clearly shows that we need to change the way services are delivered in Indigenous communities, the BC Government and Service Employees Union (BCGEU) said today.

"Bernard Richard's report identifies a child apprehension policy, put in place by the previous government, that is in urgent need of transformative change," said BCGEU president Stephanie Smith. "Child protection workers often bear the brunt of criticism for implementing government policies, but it is important to put the focus back on the ministry leadership where it belongs."

"We are pleased that the minister publicly acknowledges the difficult work that social workers are asked to perform every day, under very stressful conditions. These professionals have been advocating for improvements in service delivery for many years. It's time for the government to ensure that front line workers have the resources and policy framework in place to fully support British Columbia's Indigenous families."

"We understand that it takes time to steer a large ship in a new direction. Inertia creates its own momentum. But we have a historic opportunity, given the B.C. government's commitment to adopt the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to implement progressive policies that respect the rights and culture of Indigenous children and families who access government services."

"We are committed to work with the government to ensure that the experience and knowledge of our dedicated members who provide front line support to B.C. families will help inform the structural changes that are needed to provide efficient, compassionate delivery of social services to British Columbians."

-30-

UWU/MoveUP