The presence of children and youth at past and current demonstrations in Ottawa, Toronto, and Windsor is of concern to many Ontarians and OACAS echoes those concerns. We support the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa’s message today to parents and caregivers at the demonstration to make the necessary alternate care arrangements should they become unable to care for their children following potential police action.
We would also remind Ontarians that under the recently announced federal Emergencies Act regulations, it is prohibited to bring a minor under the age of 18 to, or within 500 metres of, a public assembly as defined by the Act. The physical and emotional safety and well-being of children and youth should always be at the centre of decision-making for all parents and caregivers.
Children’s Aid Societies and Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agencies in Ontario are mandated by provincial legislation to ensure the safety and well-being of all children and youth. They are available 24/7 to respond to concerns from the public about the welfare of children and youth. To find contact information for your local Children’s Aid Society or Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agency, visit oacas.org/locate.
