NDP calls for better transparency in system
"The death of a four-month-old child in the province’s care, which was not mentioned in the Ministry of Children and Youth Services’ annual report"
"Notley said she became aware of the death in December 2010, when the child’s family contacted her office. She said the family told her that what was initially ruled as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome was later reported to be due to unknown causes."
“At what point does neglect contribute to natural causes?"
"Minister of Children and Youth Services..." “If there is a death that is not reported in the annual report, the death is not an injury-related death,” Fritz said
"She said the ministry doesn’t immediately report on deaths of children in care because it would interfere with police investigations and ongoing court cases"
"Alberta also does not have an independent child welfare advocate. In the province, the advocate has to report to the minister of Children and Youth Services and anything that is published must first be approved."
"The advocate is not allowed to launch independent investigations on specific cases or conduct audits on the child welfare system"
- Edmonton Journal
