NDP Government Fails Métis Children, Families
WINNIPEG — Agassiz MLA Jodie Byram, PC Critic for Families, is calling out the NDP government for failing to protect Métis children and families.
Workers impacted by recent lay-offs at Métis CFS agencies confirm that multiple programs and one-on-one support services are being cut, leaving at-risk youth without the support they rely on. In speaking with the PC caucus, one worker described the ongoing situation as a crisis.
“These aren’t just budget line items—they are life-changing programs for children and families,” said Byram. “The NDP’s failure to act means Métis children will lose access to essential cultural and support services that help them stay connected to their roots and develop life skills.”
Cuts at Métis Child and Family Services include:
- the Circle of Life Program, which provides one-on-one support for children;
- the Skills for Life Program, helping youth develop essential life skills;
- a cultural-based care committee, slashed down from 14 members to just two;
- one-on-one support for at-risk children, which is now nearly eliminated;
- group homes are now at risk of closing, leaving children with nowhere to go; and
- the Community Addictions Response Team is impacted by the layoffs, putting vulnerable youth at even greater risk.
“Instead of taking responsibility, the families minister is passing the blame,” Byram stated. “At the end of the day, the NDP are responsible for protecting Manitoba’s children and youth. The minister must act now before more kids fall through the cracks.”
The Manitoba PC Caucus is demanding the NDP restore funding and prevent further harm to Métis children and families.
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For media inquiries, please contact PCCaucus_Media@leg.gov.mb.ca