Newfoundland and Labrador’s child and youth advocate, Jackie Lake Kavanagh, has started several new investigations, according to a news release issued Wednesday.
Kavanagh is not providing information beyond the statement, noting two separate investigations and one review of government policies now underway.
The first investigation involves the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development and contracts for residential services, more specifically compliance with service contracts.
The second investigation is looking at English School District actions, relating to teacher conduct and student safety.
The review, meanwhile, is looking at current practices relating to any recovery or claw-back of child support payments from income support, focused on the Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour.
Asked about the investigations, Child, Seniors and Social Development Minister Lisa Dempster told reporters she wouldn’t offer any details beyond what the advocate’s office had released, adding the government respects the advocate’s role.
“We will be very compliant,” Dempster said, “and whatever information the advocate needs to carry out her investigation, we will certainly (provide) that and support her in any way that we can.”
