CASW Encouraged by Tribunal Ruling on Jordan’s Principle

OTTAWA, ON – The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) is deeply encouraged by yesterday’s Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ruling ordering the federal government to enact Jordan’s Principle, giving the Department of Indigenous Affairs two weeks to confirm that the policy has been implemented.

Jordan’s Principle, a child-first policy that would ensure First Nations children’s health and welfare is not impacted by intergovernmental or jurisdictional disputes, was passed unanimously in House of Commons in 2007. The 94 Calls to Action advanced by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) called for the immediate implementation of the Principle as well.

“We are absolutely pleased by the Tribunal’s Ruling to enact Jordan’s Principle,” said CASW President Morel Caissie. “The acknowledgment that First Nations children’s health and safety takes precedence over any jurisdictional spat is egregiously overdue, and we are confident the Department of Indigenous Affairs will act responsibly and enact the policy immediately.”

In addition to supporting Jordan’s Principle, CASW has called for the Government of to uphold all of the TRC’s recommendations and make true reconciliation a priority, and to end its underfunding of child welfare services for First Nations children.

While CASW appreciates the $71 million earmarked for First Nations child welfare in the first year of the budget, CASW echoes the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society’s concern that this amount still falls short of what is required to restore equity and fairness.

“We are encouraged by this step to uphold one of the TRC’s Calls to Action,” added Mr. Caissie, “but it is only one step of the many remaining in addressing the inequities facing First Nations in Canada.”

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Fred Phelps
CASW, Executive Director
613-729-6668
fred.phelps@casw-acts.ca