“The Conservative government’s first chance to explain to Ontarians what their fiscal plan was for the future of this province contained the most damaging cuts to independent officers we have ever seen.
The Ontario Child Advocate is one of them.
The Ontario Child Advocate listened to vulnerable youth in Ontario who needed help. This government is turning its back on the youth of this province in a move to undermine the past Liberal government and avoid oversight and accountability.
It is ruthless to try to save money on the backs of vulnerable children.
Black, indigenous and LGBTQ2 youth in this province need the protections offered by the Ontario Child Advocate.
Youth in care of children’s aid societies and youth with disabilities need the protections offered by the Ontario Child Advocate.
The Ombudsman’s Office is a highly respected and critically important body; however, it cannot be all things to all people. The Ontario Child Advocate listened to vulnerable youth in a way nobody else was able to do. This is the specific and vital role of the office.
Premier Ford has publicly stated his government is proud to admit when it is wrong – I think I speak for the young people who gathered outside of Queen’s Park earlier today when I say they should do the right thing and reinstate the Ontario Child Advocate so youth who need help the most have someone to turn to.”