(Toronto) The union representing workers at both the Catholic Childrens Aid Society and the Anduyhaun Shelter says it is committed to working with the various levels of government and agencies to ensure that the implementation of the recommendations will be part of baby Jordan Heikamps lasting legacy.
CUPE Legal representative Risa Pancer, who presented some 35 wide-ranging recommendations on behalf of the union to the jury, says, It is our sincerest hope that the homicide verdict returned today does not cloud the importance and urgency of those recommendations.
Among CUPEs recommendations to the jury 18 of which were adopted:
- Provide more services and funding for pre-natal and post-natal care to young moms who live on the streets and in shelters.
- Develop and establish standards for shelter staff, and provide education and training programs.
- That the Ministries of Health and Community and Social Services establish additional training for frontline workers who work with street kids.
In addition, CUPE recommended that the Ministry of Community and Social Services be made accountable for system failures and to make certain that childrens protection needs are a priority.
Says Pancer, While we are encouraged by the fact that the jury accepted many of our recommendations, we look forward to being part of their implementation. By moving on now to this stage, the necessary improvements to services and care for children living in shelters and/or are in the protection of Childrens Aid Societies will occur.
For information:
Risa Pancer, CUPE Legal Rep.
(416) 292-3999 (o)
John McCracken, CUPE Communications Rep.
(416) 292-3999 (o)