News release

Community Services Partners with Cape Breton-Victoria Children's Aid Society

Community Services

The board of directors of the Children's Aid Society of Cape Breton-Victoria and the Department of Community Services have agreed to a new operating partnership, Community Services Minister Judy Streatch said today, Aug. 16.

Staff from Community Services will work directly with the board of directors in managing the Children's Aid Society of Cape Breton-Victoria and provide support for up to one year.

"I have met with the board and I am confident that they understand the need for our involvement and the need to make significant changes. We share the same priority -- and that's to protect those children and families who need help," said Ms. Streatch. "That is why I am providing the board with an opportunity to resolve our shared concerns."

"We are committed to working in partnership with the Department of Community Services," said Murdock Moore, president of the board of directors. "We acknowledge that changes are necessary in order to provide the best possible service to the children and families of Cape Breton and Victoria counties."

Child welfare staff of Community Services conducted a review of the agency's files and practices earlier this summer and recommended changes.

The following terms were agreed to and will be implemented immediately:

  • An interim executive director will be appointed;
  • The interim executive director will report to both the board of directors and to the department's regional administrator for Cape Breton;
  • The board will accept and implement all departmental polices, child welfare standards, training and all other matters related to the Children and Family Services Act;
  • The department will audit the agency within one year and determine permanent administrative authority.