The minister responsible for the child welfare network in Ontario, Michael Parsa, recently addressed the issue of child deaths within the system. On average, a child dies every three days under Ontario’s care network, which Parsa described as a “profound tragedy.” While he expressed a commitment to providing the necessary supports for children and youth, he did not specify a timeline for reducing the number of deaths. Parsa emphasized the importance of collective efforts from legislators, service providers, and the community to ensure that all children and youth have the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
Data obtained through freedom of information laws revealed that 354 children died between 2020 and 2022 while under the care of children’s aid societies in Ontario. A significant portion of these deaths remained unexplained, with the causes unknown to both children’s aid agencies and the government. Medical deaths and accidental deaths were among the most common categories, with suicides accounting for a smaller percentage of cases. Premier Doug Ford announced an ongoing review of child welfare in Ontario, with the potential for expanding its scope to address the issue more comprehensively.
The Supporting Children’s Futures Act was introduced to enhance oversight of group homes, increase the frequency of checks on children in care, and implement changes to enforcement practices. While Parsa highlighted the importance of adhering to these standards as law, he refrained from guaranteeing that the changes would lead to a decrease in the number of child deaths. When asked directly about reducing the number of child deaths, Parsa reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting children and youth in the province. He stressed the importance of ensuring that all children have the necessary support and services to thrive despite their circumstances.
The overall goal of the government’s efforts in child welfare is to create a safer and more supportive environment for children and youth in Ontario. Despite the challenges and tragedies faced within the system, Parsa emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to providing the necessary resources and services to protect the future of the province. The ongoing review of child welfare practices, along with the implementation of the Supporting Children’s Futures Act, demonstrate a proactive approach towards addressing systemic issues and improving outcomes for vulnerable children and youth.
While specific strategies for reducing child deaths within the child welfare network were not outlined, the government’s focus on strengthening oversight, increasing support services, and implementing legislative changes indicates a step in the right direction. It remains crucial for all stakeholders, including policymakers, service providers, and the community, to work together collaboratively to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth in Ontario. By prioritizing the needs of vulnerable individuals and advocating for systemic improvements, the government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for children and youth within the child welfare system.
