Whereas 1
Many government departments make policy decisions affecting children.
Whereas 2
The federal government has commitments to improve child welfare and promotes the Children’s Agenda.
Whereas 3
Canada needs an independent body to monitor the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which it ratified in 1991.
Whereas 4
The Children’s Bureau, created in 1991, lacks independence and cannot fulfill its role.
Whereas 5
Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child states that children should have a say in decisions affecting them.
Resolved 1
That the NCWC support the appointment of a Commissioner for Canada’s Children.
Resolved 2
That the NCWC urge the Government of Canada to appoint an independent and non-partisan Commissioner for Canada’s Children, accountable to Parliament, with a mandate to:
- Ensure a coherent approach to child policy and legislation.
- Ensure the federal government upholds its commitments to children.
- Ensure children’s voices are heard in decisions affecting them at the federal level.
