The Child and Youth Well-Being Act designed to modernize protection and support for young people in New Brunswick has received unanimous support in the legislature.
Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch said the new legislation focuses on the interests, protection, participation and well-being of children and young people and the health and well-being of families.
“The Act sets provisions for children and youth apart to better protect them, to provide enhanced support services for children with disabilities, and to improve the adoption process. It recognizes the critical nature of early detection and intervention in matters where the well-being of a child or young person may be at risk,” noted Fitch.
The overall approach of the new legislation is child-centred, rather than parent-centred.
It provides greater consideration of the views and preferences of the child or young person in decision-making.
“Most importantly, this new legislation includes a mechanism for future review five years after proclamation and every seven years thereafter,” said Fitch.
“This will provide regular opportunities to bring forward any necessary changes.”
The Department of Social Development is drafting regulations to support the Act.
This involves a consultation process which will conclude by early next year.
