Quebec appoints first Commissioner for Children’s Welfare & Rights

Quebec has appointed Marie-Ève ​​Brunet-Kitchen as its first Commissioner for the Welfare and Rights of Children (CBEDE).

“To all children and youth in Quebec, (…) some will say that you are the citizens of tomorrow, I tell you that you are already full citizens. You have the right to be protected, heard, and supported. Together, we will create a Quebec where each of you finds their place,” she wrote on Facebook.

The appointment of this commissioner was a key recommendation of the Special Commission on the Rights of Children and Youth Protection – commonly known as the Laurent Commission.

Brunet-Kitchen will take office on May 12.

“Children in Quebec now have a voice. Someone who will ensure they know their rights and who will ensure their rights are protected,” stated Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant.

In the past, Brunet-Kitchen served as Executive Director of the Fédération québécoise des organismes communautaires Famille, the Association des ressources intermédiaires d’hébergement du Québec, and Action Prévention Verdun. She was also a city councilor in this Montreal borough.

“Today, I commit to being more than an ally. I commit to building, with you and with all those who believe in it, a Quebec where every child and young person can thrive and look to the future with confidence,” ​​Brunet-Kitchen in her message.

The name of researcher Martin Goyette had been floated for this position, but his candidacy was ultimately rejected by the government due to “doubts,” reported Le Devoir.

Québec solidaire congratulated Brunet-Kitchen on her appointment. “My expectations are high, I won’t hide it. The stakes are high, particularly in youth protection, and young people need a watchdog to defend them more than ever,” said solidarity activist Guillaume Cliche-Rivard.

–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews