Largest First Nation In B.C. Votes To Take Over Child And Family Services For Its Residents

The Cowichan Tribes have voted to take over the authority of its child welfare system.

"[The new law] represents a significant step in the self-determination of the Cowichan people,'' said negotiator Robert Morales.

"The ability to make determinations as to what's in the best interests of your children is a very fundamental right, and one that the community should have a significant say in and not have outside governments making those determinations."

Members voted 83 percent in favour of “The Laws of the Cowichan People for Families and Children” law.

The Law will be implemented in phases beginning in 2024.

Services will initially cover all of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.  Outside this area, provincial child and family services law will apply until Cowichan Tribes expands the service area.

They will soon enter into an agreement with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to ensure the involvement of the Cowichan Tribes Child and Family Services Authority in child and family matters delivered by other agencies.