Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to bring the Members up to date on the implementation of family law reform.
I am pleased to advise that work is proceeding on schedule. The Departments of Justice and Health and Social Services have been working on the development of new legislation, as recommended by the family law review report in September 1992 and by the Special Committee on Health and Social Services in November 1993.
The first piece of legislation, the Aboriginal Custom Adoption Recognition Act, has already been introduced and will come forward for further consideration in committee of the whole this session. Cabinet has approved three additional pieces of legislation to be prepared by the spring of 1995, so they can be tabled for consultation during the life of this Legislative Assembly.
Work has commenced on a new Family Law Act, a new Children's Law Act and a new Child Welfare Act. The child welfare legislation presents several opportunities and challenges. Communities must be given more opportunity to be involved in child welfare matters. This will have to be balanced with the responsibility to ensure that children taken into care receive the protection and care they need.
Further consultations with interested groups and individuals will occur as this act is drafted. Both Minister Kakfwi and myself will consult with Members, communities and the public as work on family law reform progresses. Thank you, Madam Speaker.