New legislation designed to ensure the protection and care of children and youth is now in effect.
The new Children, Youth and Families Act replaces the Children and Youth Care and Protection Act.
Minister Lisa Dempster says the new legislation allows all youth under a voluntary Youth Services Agreement to receive services until their 21st birthday. That allows them to complete high school before transition to independent living.
She says the new Act is youth-centred, family-focused and culturally responsive. She adds that the Act contains significant updates aimed at strengthening service delivery to Indigenous children, youth and their families by keeping children, where possible, at home with their families and culture.