Innu Child Protection Inquiry Commissioners Express Optimism for Future
The commissioners overseeing the investigation into the treatment of Innu families within the child protection system are looking towards a hopeful future as they approach the final stages of the four-year endeavor.
Throughout this week, the inquiry was presented with extensive and emotional testimonies, including six detailed reports delving into the tragic deaths of Innu youths from Natuashish between 2015 and 2021.
Despite the distressing nature of the evidence, the commissioners remain resolute in their belief that these revelations will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for Innu children.
Co-commissioner Anastasia Qupee shared her perspective, expressing optimism for the current generation to learn from these stories and witness the ongoing efforts that could lead to positive changes for the Innu community.
The investigative reports brought to light 12 systemic issues that were common across all six deaths, such as the enduring impact of intergenerational trauma, an excessive reliance on out-of-province placements, deficiencies in mental health and clinical care services, among others.
In addition, the inquiry featured insights from University of Toronto professors who analyzed child protection data in Newfoundland and Labrador, revealing an 82% decrease in the removal of Innu children from their homes between 2018 and 2025.
While Innu children continue to be disproportionately represented in the system, there are signs of a transitioning landscape, as highlighted in the report.
Commissioner Mike Devine emphasized the significant strides made in prevention services, a crucial improvement that was lacking during the periods when the six youths were under care.
The reports underscored a pattern where the provincial government tended to react only in crisis situations, resorting to removing children from their homes as a primary response to welfare issues, rather than proactively working with families to ensure the child’s safety at home.
Looking ahead, the focus is on empowering Indigenous communities, with the passage of Bill C-92 in 2019 affirming their rights to govern child protection within their territories. Efforts are underway to revamp the child protection system in Labrador, although achieving a fully Innu-led system remains a distant goal.
Commissioner James Igloliorte acknowledged the lengthy process ahead, recognizing the Innu community’s resilience and determination to regain control over their child protection affairs.
Despite the challenges, Devine stressed the necessity of addressing the shared trauma experienced by the Innu, asserting that any future system must be built around this crucial aspect.
With the Innu community taking the lead, Devine expressed confidence in their ability to navigate the complexities ahead and foster positive change.
The final report and recommendations from the commissioners are expected to be released in October, marking a crucial milestone in this comprehensive inquiry.