VICTORIA - Minister of Children and Family Development Mary McNeil made the
following statement on behalf of the B.C. government in response to the
Representative for Children and Youth's report released today, Honouring
Kaitlynne, Max and Cordon: Make Their Voices Heard Now.
"This case is an unimaginable tragedy and my sympathies, condolences and
apology go out to the family of these children. What this family has endured
is beyond what anyone can possibly fathom. To that end, any supports or
services we can provide, including under our Criminal Victim Assistance
Programs, are and will be made available to assist this family.
"In reading this report, it is clear that much more must be done to improve
the system of supports for families dealing with complex issues like
domestic violence and mental illness. There also needs to be greater focus
on integrating and co-ordinating the system of supports.
"The Representative's report urges the government to take further steps to
demonstrate accountability and leadership in the area of domestic violence.
We are acting immediately to establish a Domestic Violence Unit under the
Ministry of Children and Family Development -- reporting to the Deputy
Minister -- that will be accountable for delivering a comprehensive, co-
ordinated action plan to strengthen supports to children and families who
are impacted by domestic violence.
"This unit will be permanent to ensure continued leadership and
accountability on this important issue. The Domestic Violence Unit's
immediate role will be to work with a newly formed deputy ministers'
committee - comprised of deputies from the ministries of Children and Family
Development, Justice, Health, Social Development and Education - to develop
an inventory of cross government services and resources. It will identify
where there are gaps and develop an action plan that addresses the
recommendations in the Representative's report.
"The action plan will be outcomes-based and include targets and timeframes.
It will be developed in close consultation with the Representative and be
presented to her on July 31, 2012, with work to begin immediately
thereafter.
"Government is committed to ensuring that we act quickly and effectively in
developing a seamless approach that will provide children and families with
the supports they need."