FREDERICTON (GNB) – Auditor General Paul Martin tabled a report in the legislative assembly today that included an audit on the child death investigation, inquest and review process.
The Department Justice and Public Safety is responsible for overseeing the process, and, according to Martin, recent public reporting by the Child Death Review Committee has been limited.
“The loss of a child is a profound tragedy and impacts families and communities,” said Martin. “In the wake of such an event, it is crucial that every aspect of the investigation, inquest and subsequent Child Death Review Committee review is conducted with the utmost diligence and integrity.”
The audit highlighted risk areas, including a lack of legislative compliance.
Key specific findings concluded that investigations, inquests and reviews are not always completed in in a timely manner and, according to Martin’s report, “of great concern is that Child Death Review Committee recommendations made to mitigate future risks of child deaths are not being shared with relevant departments, organizations or agencies.”
The auditor general made 28 recommendations to the Department of Justice and Public Safety. The report is available online.
10-12-24