The child welfare agency in Peguis First Nation recently disclosed data indicating the success of a system established through a groundbreaking 2023 agreement, in contrast to the call from the community’s chief to terminate the perceived “failing” arrangement due to oversight issues. Former Chief Glenn Hudson, who led the agreement’s signing 2½ years ago, refuted Chief Dr. Stan Bird’s negative assessment, emphasizing the need for collaboration and engagement rather than rewriting or canceling the agreements.
Chief Bird, in a recent news conference with Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, advocated for ending the agreement, citing concerns that the system is failing at various levels and highlighting the necessity for improved independent oversight to safeguard children and families. The agreement, facilitated under federal Bill C-92 in 2019, enabled Peguis to assume child welfare authority, establishing Peguis Child and Family Services as a result.
In response to Chief Bird’s statements, Peguis CFS released a statement asserting the system’s success, with data indicating a significant decrease in children entering care and the majority being placed in culturally appropriate settings with family or loved ones. The agency also updated its website, including information on lodging complaints with the quality assurance coordinator.
Hudson emphasized the historic significance of the agreement, emphasizing Peguis’ control and jurisdiction over child welfare outcomes. He noted community input before the agreement’s finalization and expressed the need to maintain the agreement for the benefit of children and families in Peguis. Hudson is also pursuing the overturning of the election results that saw Bird elected as chief.
Amidst the ongoing discussions and differing opinions, Manitoba Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine is set to meet with Chief Bird to address his concerns regarding the agreement. Chief Bird reiterated the need for renegotiation to ensure safeguards, oversight, accountability, and quality assurance for children and families in Peguis.
The call for enhanced oversight and accountability resonates with stakeholders like the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth and Manitoba Foster Parent Association president, emphasizing the importance of kinship and customary care models. The concerns raised by Chief Bird reflect a broader dialogue on the balance between self-government and external oversight in Indigenous child welfare systems.
