New Brunswick Social Development Minister Cindy Miles has pledged significant changes to the province's child welfare system following a devastating report from the child and youth advocate. The report, released Tuesday, documented widespread failures including inadequate oversight, understaffing, and a lack of resources that have left vulnerable children at risk.
Report highlights systemic failures
The advocate's investigation found that the Department of Social Development failed to meet its legal obligations in multiple cases, including delayed responses to reports of abuse and neglect, insufficient support for youth aging out of care, and a lack of culturally appropriate services for Indigenous children. The report cited specific instances where children were placed in inappropriate settings or left without necessary mental health care.
“The findings are deeply troubling and unacceptable,” Miles said at a press conference in Fredericton. “We are committed to implementing the recommendations and ensuring that every child in our care receives the protection and support they deserve.”
According to the report, the number of children in government care has increased by 15% over the past five years, while staffing levels have remained stagnant. The advocate called for an immediate 20% increase in frontline social workers and enhanced training programs.
Government response and next steps
Miles announced a three-point plan: hiring 50 new social workers within six months, creating a dedicated unit for youth transitioning out of care, and establishing an independent oversight committee to monitor progress. She also promised to review all current cases to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Opposition critics, however, argued the plan lacks concrete timelines and funding commitments. Green Party Leader David Coon said, “We've heard promises before. The minister must provide a clear budget and measurable benchmarks.”
The advocate's report comes amid broader concerns about child welfare in New Brunswick, including a recent case where a 13-year-old boy was allegedly assaulted by a staff member at a group home in Oshawa, though that incident falls under Ontario jurisdiction. The province has also faced scrutiny over its handling of Indigenous children, with the advocate noting that First Nations children are overrepresented in care at twice the rate of non-Indigenous children.
Broader context and calls for reform
Child welfare advocates across Canada have been pushing for systemic changes, citing similar issues in other provinces. The New Brunswick report is expected to fuel demands for a national inquiry into child welfare practices. Miles acknowledged the need for collaboration with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders.
“We cannot fix this alone,” she said. “We will work with First Nations leaders, frontline workers, and families to rebuild trust and ensure our system is truly child-centered.”
The minister promised a progress update in six months, but advocates warn that without sustained funding and political will, the reforms may fall short. The child and youth advocate’s office said it will monitor the situation closely.
