The child welfare agency in Peguis First Nation has recently shared data indicating positive outcomes from a system established through a significant 2023 agreement. This contrasts with Chief Dr. Stan Bird’s call to dismantle the arrangement, citing concerns about oversight. Former Chief Glenn Hudson, who was in office when the agreement was made, disputes Bird’s assessment, stating that collaboration is key to addressing issues rather than scrapping the agreement.
Chief Bird, accompanied by Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, urged for the termination of the agreement, claiming that the current system is failing at various levels, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced independent oversight to safeguard children and families. In 2023, under Hudson’s leadership, Peguis became the first Indigenous community in Manitoba to sign an agreement with federal and provincial governments, leading to the establishment of Peguis Child and Family Services.
This milestone was made possible by the enactment of Bill C-92 in 2019, granting Indigenous communities the authority to take control of local child welfare services. Despite Chief Bird’s recent statements, Peguis CFS has released a statement affirming that the system is performing exceptionally well. The agency highlighted significant achievements, such as an 80% decrease in the number of children entering care over the past four years, with the majority placed in culturally appropriate settings with family members.
Moreover, Peguis CFS has updated its website content, including information on lodging complaints with the agency’s quality assurance coordinator. Hudson stresses the importance of resolving concerns with Peguis CFS while advocating for the preservation of the agreement, noting that some current council members support maintaining the arrangement.
Hudson underscores the historical significance of the agreement in empowering the community to exercise sovereignty over child welfare matters. He emphasizes that the decision-making authority now rests with Peguis Child and Family Services, ensuring better outcomes for children and families. Hudson also mentions community engagement sessions held before finalizing the agreement in 2023.
Efforts are underway to challenge the election results that saw Bird succeed Hudson as Chief, with an appeal pending before the Federal Court of Appeal. Manitoba Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine is set to meet with Chief Bird to address his concerns about the agreement. Bird reiterates the need for renegotiation to include safeguards, oversight, and accountability mechanisms to protect children and families. He advocates for an independent review mechanism similar to the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth to address grievances effectively.
Chief Bird and others have emphasized the importance of oversight and support for kinship and customary care models within the child welfare system. They stress the need for external review mechanisms to ensure the well-being of children and families in Peguis First Nation.