(September 26, 2024, St. John’s NL): 

Tony Wakeham, PC Opposition Leader, and MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port, today called for the Premier to review the operation of the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development following explosive new information about how the Minister is overseeing his department.

Wakeham noted earlier today the Premier finally agreed to an independent review of the horrific sex charges against two men in St. John’s by the Child and Youth Advocate.  This will review numerous contacts between these victims and the child welfare and justice system. However, Wakeham has received new information that cast doubt on the Minister’s ability to oversee child welfare.

Wakeham released copies of emails that demonstrate that serious concerns were raised about a St. John’s group home last month directly to Minister Pike but were dismissed just 55 minutes later in a reply from the Minister’s office referring the individual to the Group Home operator.

“This is simply unbelievable. This individual raised serious concerns over the security and operation of a Group Home and the Minister washed his hands of the issue.  This is a total abandonment of Ministerial Responsibility.  These children are in the care of his department.  This home is funded by his department.  And yet, less than an hour after receiving a complaint, the Minister referred the matter to the very people the individual was complaining about!”

Wakeham noted as Premier he would demand a greater level of Ministerial accountability.

“After the shocking revelations this week that allege decades of abuse, we must make every effort to protect the safety and wellbeing of our children.  A new PC Government I will lead will take every complaint seriously and ensure Ministers are accountable for their department.”