Need for P.E.I. child advocate overwhelming, says opposition

Stratford-Kinlock MLA James Aylward has again tabled a motion calling on the government to create a child advocate position.

P.E.I. is the only province without a child advocate. Aylward tabled a similar motion last spring that was defeated.

When tabling the motion at Tuesday's session of the legislature, Aylward said he brought the issue forward again because of the overwhelming need he sees in the province.

He pointed to the findings of a recent inquest to the death of four-year-old Nash Campbell, which recommended P.E.I. establish a child advocate position.

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Time ran out on the debate, but the Liberal caucus had a few members speak on it, including the premier. They all said government is focusing attention on front line staff and solutions instead of creating a child advocate.

Debate on the motion is expected to continue Wednesday.

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