Sask. government responds to Saskatoon Tribal Council court order to hand over documents

The provincial government says they will be engaging with theSaskatoon Tribal Councilin the coming days to gain access to the child welfare files they've been asking for.

A Court of Queen's Bench judge ordered the STCto turn over the papers earlier this week.

• Court orders Saskatoon Tribal Council to stop interfering with Sask. government in child care dispute
• Saskatoon Tribal Council will comply with ruling on child welfare documents

"I want to express my appreciation for Madam Justice Schwann's prompt and thoughtful ruling in the matter," said Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer in a news release.

"We remain committed to more dialogue regarding a new delegation agreement with theSaskatoon Tribal Council Health & Family Services Inc. (STCHFS)and it is our intention toresume discussions with theSTCHFSboard members toward this," she added.

She said the files they'll receive from the council will be used to fulfill their obligation to deliverservices and supports to the children and families in the STC First Nations.

• Sask. government taking over child welfare programs from Saskatoon Tribal Council

Although the STC said itrespectfully accepted Schwann's decision in favour of the province,it called on the Social ServicesMinistry torescind their efforts to withdraw the STC's authority over child welfare.

"In the interim, in compliance with the court order, STC will make available for copy or notes the files as per the order," the STC said in its statement.

According toHarpaurer, the ministry currently works with a number of First Nations to provide services to their respective communities.

"These First Nations work closely with the Ministryin the provision of joint training, quality assurance reviews and ensuring that children and families receive consistent services," she said.

"This is our goal as well for theSTC First Nations."