NB 1317
Oct. 26, 2006
FREDERICTON (CNB) -- Bernard Richard has accepted an appointment as the first Child and Youth Advocate, Premier Shawn Graham announced today.
The appointment of Richard, who is also the Ombudsman of New Brunswick, is effective immediately and is to remain in effect for one year. Richard will perform the duties of both Child and Youth Advocate and Ombudsman concurrently during this period.
"Filling the position of Child and Youth Advocate has been one of our government's top priorities, because we want to provide the best possible protection for all children and youth in New Brunswick," Graham said. "Bernard Richard perfectly fits this key role because of his dedication, professionalism and years of experience. I'm confident he will provide a strong, independent voice as the Child and Youth Advocate."
The Child and Youth Advocate Act was passed on June 30, 2004, and proclaimed on April 1, 2005.
Graham said the government will make legislative changes in the forthcoming session of the legislature to amalgamate the office of the Ombudsman and the role of the Child and Youth Advocate on a permanent basis.
"Our government believes the role of Ombudsman should encompass that of the Child and Youth Advocate," the premier said. "Merging these offices would reduce administrative costs and allow more resources to be focused on the front-line needs of children and youth in New Brunswick. To this end, we intend to make legislative changes in the forthcoming session of the legislature."
Graham said the provincial government will preserve the scope and independence of the Child and Youth Advocate.
"The act applies to all children and youth in New Brunswick up to age 19 who are receiving government services," Graham said. "This broad scope will remain in effect as long as our government is in office."
As Child and Youth Advocate, Richard's responsibilities will include:
· Ensuring the rights and interests of children and youth are protected;
· Ensuring the views of children and youth are heard and considered where those views might not otherwise be advanced;
· Ensuring children and youth have access to approved services and that complaints about these services receive appropriate attention;
· Providing information and advice to government, government agencies and communities about the availability, effectiveness, responsiveness and relevance of services to children and youth; and
· Acting as an advocate for the rights and interests of children and youth in general.
06/10/26
MEDIA CONTACT: Marie-Andrée Bolduc, communications, Office of the Premier, 506-444-2286.
06/10/26
