Affidavit of Michael Bear - Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry

esponsibilities and duties under the appropriate governing legislative
mandate. I do intend to confine myself, as much as possible, to issues
relevant to the death of Tracia Owen. Although I received excellent
submissions from counsel with respect to recommendations, I only accepted
those I felt the evidence warranted.
[203] There is no question about the dedication, industry and caring of the
people working in the child welfare system. The child welfare system, even
if working well, is fraught with difficulties and unlike some fields of
endeavour the consequences can be tragic. The realities of practicing child
welfare in places like Little Grand Rapids can never be fully appreciated
anyone who has never practiced child welfare there. The problem of
numbers, lack of community supports, lack of sufficient resources, social
problems and behaviour problems are immense. In many places child
welfare is the only show in town.
[204] However, unfortunately since they are the last resort for these
children, good intentions have to be supported by best practices and
adherence to standards cognizant of the reality in which they work.
[205j Although Tracia Owen died in August 2005, a review of the testimony
suggests the foundation for her tragic death was laid many years before.
by
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