Consultations Influence Amendments to Children and Family Services Act

Community Services Minister Joanne Bernard intends to bring forward changes to Bill 112, to amend the Children and Family Services Act, during the fall House of Assembly sitting.

During the summer, submissions were received from those directly affected by the proposed changes to the 25-year-old legislation.

One area discussed was the proposal to require mandatory reporting of third party abuse of youth between the ages of 16 and 18.

"We have heard overwhelmingly that third party mandatory reporting may have unintended impacts for this group," said Ms. Bernard.

"I will be bringing forward proposed changes so mandatory reporting of third party abuse will remain unchanged. Increased public education and training around issues of sexual violence is forthcoming through our Sexual Violence Strategy – Breaking the Silence. "

Increasing education, awareness and training is consistent with the province's first Sexual Violence Strategy.

The bill will introduce changes to the definition of a child so that youth up to age 19 can receive important supports and benefits.

"We fully support these changes because right now there is a serious gap in services that can be provided to older youth in Nova Scotia," said Delores Feltmate, acting chair of the Nova Scotia Child Welfare Boards. "It's far better to be proactive and reach out with supports for young people, particularly those who are vulnerable and at risk."

Government is continuing to review valuable input from interested groups on other considerations raised.

"I remain very committed to this legislation," said Ms. Bernard. "The proposed bill had support from all sides of the legislature. The genesis of it still stands. This valuable community feedback strengthens its relevance."

The proposed amendments will influence investigation, protection, intervention and adoption.