Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today as the MLA for Tu NedheWiilideh in the Northwest Territories to address a matter of utmost importance that affects the most vulnerable members of our society our children.
Recent revelation from the Auditor General of Canada reports into child and family services in Nunavut have revealed serious and damning faults in their system. This report calls for an immediate wholeofgovernment approach to address the challenge of protecting children in the government care. While the focus of this report is on Nunavut, it would be remiss of us not to examine our own situation here in the Northwest Territories. We must ask ourselves, are we immune to the same systematic deficiencies that plague our neighbours? Can we honestly say that we're doing enough to protect the rights and wellbeing of our children?
In the 2018 Auditor General Report into the Northwest Territories Child and Family Services found serious deficiencies for children in temporary, permanent, and foster care. This is clear indication that we too face significant challenges in our child and family services system. We cannot ignore the warning signs, nor we cannot turn a blind eye to the urgent need for reform. Our children deserve better. They deserve a system that prioritizes their safety and wellbeing in the future. We have a moral obligation to protect them and provide them with the care and support they need to thrive.
The Auditor General's report in Nunavut highlighted the need for a wholeofagovernment approach. This means breaking down silos, working collaboratively across departments to ensure the holistic wellbeing of our children. We must bring together health, education, social services, and other relevant departments to create a comprehensive support network for children in care. It is only through this integrated approach that we can effectively address the complex challenge that our children face.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the importance of community engagement. We must actively involve Indigenous governments, leaders, elders, knowledgekeepers, in the decisionmaking process that affect our children. Their wisdom and guidance are invaluable in shaping policies, practices, that are culturally sensitive and responsible, responsive to the unique needs of our diverse communities.
I'll call upon the Government of the Northwest Territories to take immediate action. We must allocate the necessary resources to improve the quality of care and support services for our children. We must invest in training, professional development for our child and family services staff to ensure they have the skills and knowledge required to provide the high standard of care. We must also enhance accountability and transparency within the system and ensure that proper oversight mechanisms are in place for the prevention and procurement of the deficiencies identified in the audit. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I'll have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services. Mahsi.
Thank you, Member for Tu NedheWiilideh. Members' statements. Member for Yellowknife North.
