Alberta child and youth advocate says new bill erodes her independence, could endanger children

Alberta's child and youth advocate is concerned that a new advisory position in her office could weaken her office's autonomy and potentially endanger children.

Bill 206, a private member's bill passed by the legislature in March, amends the Child and Youth Advocate Act to add a new employee to Pelton's staff — a parent and guardian adviser available to help any Alberta family in "nurturing, guiding and fostering the growth and well-being of their children."

The adviser will provide families with information and referrals, help them with their children's education, and identify "systemic barriers" that may negatively impact families and children, according to the legislation.

The services will be for any Alberta family, "not just those who are already accessing services through the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate," said Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr, who put forward the bill last year.

"It's a proactive, family-centred approach to strengthening outcomes for children across the province," Cyr said in a statement.

Child and Youth Advocate Terri Pelton said she questions the need for the legislative change.

"I am a little confused about why we need this," Pelton told CBC News. "I have some concerns about an external body hiring somebody for within my office. It takes away my independence."

An independent arm of the legislature, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate helps young people involved with the child intervention and youth justice systems.

The office investigates when young people who were involved with the child intervention or youth justice system are seriously injured or die. It publishes reports on its investigations and makes recommendations to government.

CBC asked Cyr for an interview but he was not made available. In his statement, he said the adviser will help parents and guardians "navigate complex systems — like education, health care and social services — while ensuring their voices are heard."

The bill says the adviser may point also families to "spiritual support" and "language and cultural supports."

Pelton said she is concerned that the adviser will be tasked with serving all Alberta families.

"I am a little worried that the way this position is envisioned, that we'll have one person trying to support thousands and thousands of parents and that they're just going to get more frustrated rather than feeling that they are getting the support they need," she said.

It could be problematic if parents want more information about how her office is working with their child, Pelton said. In some cases, parents or guardians might be part of the reason why a child is in need of services, she added.