Affidavit of Michael Bear - Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry

"Yeah„no, I believe file documentation
case." (Vol. 20, p. 115)
was lacking in this
[168] The issue of a fetal alcohol affect disorder assessment or diagnosis is a
little more problematic. There is no question the earlier the assessment the
better for the child. But I also think it is fair to say that we know much more
today than in 1991 (Tracia's birth) about assessment, how to get them, more
aware of the need for them. Also as was testified to, getting the assessment
must be only the first step — service provision to the child if diagnosed with
FASD must be provided or the diagnosis is useless.
[169] Having said all this, keeping in mind there are difficulties involved in
such assessments, these are an important tool and should be obtained
whenever FAS is suspected. Fortunately it appears resources to increase the
diagnostic capacity in the Province is forthcoming and a FASD specialist is
being attached to each Authority.
[170] Much can be said about the extensive problems Tracia was having—
violence, sniffing, suicide or suicide ideation and other behaviour episodes.
The issues surrounding this behaviour is basically two-fold. One was the
issue of locked setting which the majority of testimony seems to reject as not
the answer for Tracia and certainly not the long-term answer.
[171] Secondly, the issue of counseling and the form that it should take. It
is arguable that in every setting the individuals were trying to assist and
counsel Tracia, however, her behaviour was out of control and therefore
counseling was not an option. It was the consensus that stabilization, a
willingness to cooperate and a trusting permanent relationship were essential
ingredients before counseling would be effective. A good case plan assists
that stability and can overcome lack of continuity of workers and the like.
[172] It is hoped that with devolution, the system will be improved with
better monitoring, culturally appropriate authorities, more cooperation and
willingness to work together between agency and community.
[173] However, as long as there are conditions of extreme poverty,
inadequate housing, and addictions that fester in these surroundings, there
will be challenges to the child welfare system wherever these conditions
exist. Proper housing, day care centres, good support services in the
community can assist in child welfare's ability to keep children safe.
"No, sadlv, I mean„ I don't think Iust Little Grand Rapids.
When vou look at children in the child welfare svstem, you
know, what I see on Tracia's file, children who act out and are
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