2020 QCCQ 12765, 2020 QCCQ 12765

Protection de la jeunesse — 209334 JW 0218 2020 QCCQ 12765 COURT OF QUEBEC CANADA PROVINCE OF QUEBEC DISTRICT […] TOWN […] Youth Division No: 640-41-001331-104 DATE: March 26, 2020 (written judgment rendered on June 22, 2020) ______________________________________________________________________ BY THE HONOURABLE PEGGY WAROLIN J.C.Q. ______________________________________________________________________ IN THE MATTER OF: X , born on [...], 2008 [SOCIAL WORKER 1], Youth Protection worker, duly authorized by the Director of Youth Protection of the A C.Y.P.C, working in Town A, district A (Quebec) Applicant and A, residing and domiciled at […] in Town A, district A (Quebec) Mother and B , deceased Father ______________________________________________________________________ JUDGMENT (Section 95 of the Youth Protection Act ) ______________________________________________________________________ WARNING: The Youth Protection Act forbids the publishing or broadcasting of information allowing for a child or the child’s parents to be identified.

Any person who contravenes this provision commits an offence and is liable to a fine (sections 11.2, 11.2.1 and 135 Y.P.A.). [ 1 ] The Director of Youth Protection (DYP) asks the Court to review a decision rendered on May 23, 2012, regarding the child X, born on [...], 2008. At that date the Court declared the security and development still endangered and entrusted the child to the foster family of Mr. C and Ms. D until she reaches her majority. [ 2 ] The DYP submits that the situation requires a revision to withdraw the attributes of parental authorities from the mother and to grant it to the foster parents.

Position of the parties [ 3 ] Even if she was dully served and despite many attempts made by the DYP worker to facilitate her presence at the Court, the mother is absent. Considering her lack of involvement in the last years, the best interest of the child and the consent of the child’s lawyer, the Court proceed in her absence. [ 4 ] X is absent, but represented by Me Migué. X was convinced that all decisions were already made by her foster parents. Doing so, she does not understand the DYP’s request.

Me Migué, on a legal mandate, submit to the Court that it is in her client’s best interest to grant this application. History of the situation [ 5 ] On January 12, 2011 , the Court was seized with the situation of X. She was 2 and a half years old. The Court ratified a draft agreement signed by the parties. The child was entrusted to a foster family for a period of two months with a progressive reintegration. The whole with aid, counsel and assistance for eight months. [ 6 ] On April 18, 2011 , the Court revised the situation. X was 2 years old and she had been reintegrated to her mother on March 12,

2011. Unfortunately, the mother continued to drink after the reintegration and when she needed a babysitter, she asked her mother who was also generally intoxicated. The mother finally admitted on March 19, 2011, that she would not be able to keep the child. X was entrusted to Ms. E, a relative. The mother was very affected by her husband’s death. He was the main caregiver, and the mother drank to avoid the situation.

The Court entrusted X to a foster family for a period of six months. [ 7 ] On October 12, 2011 , the Court ordered a provisional measure and entrusted the child to a foster family. [ 8 ] On November 8, 2011 , the Court revised the situation.

The Court ordered that the child be entrusted to a foster family for a period of six months with a progressive reintegration with the mother if the situation allowed it and also extended access between the mother and her children, including X. [ 9 ] On May 2, 2012 , the Court ordered a provisional measure and entrusted the child to a foster family. [ 10 ] On May 23, 2012 , the Court heard a new revision. The mother’s situation remained the same: she still had alcohol consumption issues, she did not visit her children and she continued to criticize the foster families of her children.

During one home visit, the mother was highly intoxicated, the house smelled marijuana, the mother’s boyfriend was also intoxicated and X was crying. When the social worker arrived for an unannounced visit, X asked to go back with her foster family who had difficulty to calm her down. X was very attached to her foster family. The Court entrusted X to Mr. C and Ms. D until she reaches her majority. Facts [ 11 ] Ms. [social worker 1] is responsible for X’s file since summer 2019.

When she was assigned, she read all the notes and saw that many attempts were made by the previous worker to obtain consent from the mother for different reasons: medical follow-ups, dental care, home visits and contacts between siblings. She noted that each time, it had been very difficult if not impossible to obtain. [ 12 ] Ms. [social worker 1] had the opportunity to speak with the mother and to ask for some authorizations. For her also, it was very difficult. The mother admitted to her not having a lot of bonds with X and her siblings.

She recently had a newborn, and fortunately, with him, the situation appears to be better. Until now, the mother is taking good care of him. [ 13 ] Many authorizations were required because of X’s important learning difficulties. She also has a very low self-esteem, and her academic difficulties exacerbate this aspect. X is very willing and very courageous. The foster family is very present to support her, but they realize that they have no more resources to help her.

X needs more, and despite their good willingness, they do not know in which way they could go to help her. [ 14 ] After requesting the authorization for four months, the mother finally consented that X be assessed by Dr. Beltempo, psychologist. The specialist noted: The test results suggest that X still has significant problems with inattentive type of ADD, anxiety and social difficulties (not having sufficient friends). She appeared quite anxious. Test results on various levels seem to suggest fear of abandonment, fear of conflict resulting in anxiety symptoms.

X also has significant difficulties with learning disabilities, which need to be further assessed by a Neuropsychologist (preferably French speaking). According to Dr. Key, child psychiatrist (in a report dated 2014) there were indications that the Mother used substances and alcohol in utero and this should be followed up as part of a comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder assessment. Mild facial Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder characteristics were observed by the Examiner. For example, X has a very small philtrum and her upper lip seems to be marginal in relation to the shape of the bottom lip.

These were not measured by standardized instruments. Consistent with the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder profile is the significant attentional difficulties despite being medicated (Ritalin) as well as the underlying problems in learning related to language processing. X still shows signs of mild PTSD stemming from severe neglect childhood. [ 15 ] Dr. Beltempo, in his report dated on October 19, 2018, recommended: 1.

X receive individual psychotherapy utilizing Cognitive Behavioral and Art therapy approaches in order to address her anxiety in combination with to help her better express her emotions particularly anger and her fears. 2. Refer X to Dr. Goyette, M.D. Pediatrician (specialized in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) of the Neurodevelopmental Clinic at the Montreal General Hospital to rule in or to rule out Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and obtain specific recommendations to deal with her learning disabilities. 3.

Family counselling offered to help X through the current Family difficulties in order to minimize the negative impact given that she is very vulnerable, fragile and hypersensitive about abandonment. 4. A neuropsychological assessment be completed in order to explore the underlying reason for X’s school and learning difficulties and to find remedial techniques at home and in the classroom. 5. Perhaps the Foster Parents, through the CLSC and/or community, could enlist X in group social activities with the intention of breaking the peer isolation, which she is currently going through.

It is quite important that X engage in organized-social activities, which are group oriented where she could participate with children her age collaboration, cooperation and sharing. I understand that she takes

part in horseback riding but according to her description, this is a very individual type of activity. We would recommend perhaps choosing an activity such as dance or a sport where she would be involved and engaged with other children her age in order to grow socially and to learn emotional how to get along with others her age. [ 16 ] At the end of 2019, X had a consultation in a FASD clinic who was not able to assess her because she had no motor impacts of a potential FASD and they were not provided with the mother’s medical file to have confirmation or not that she consumed alcohol during the pregnancy.

[ 17 ] The DYP worker ignore why, having the recommendation from Dr. Beltempo, and considering the refusal from this clinic, no intervention was made since 2018, to fix an appointment with the specialist recommended by Dr. Beltempo and to eventually assume the fees. She was not present at that time and does not know why such decision had not been made considering X’s difficulties. [ 18 ] Instead of following Dr. Beltempo’s recommendations on this aspect, X was referred to a private neuropsychologist specialized in learning difficulties. The evaluation was done on October 2019.

This specialist confirmed the diagnosis of ADHD and concluded to a "trouble d’apprentissage spécifique à la lecture et à l’écriture (dyslexie de surface/dysorthographie)". [ 19 ] The specialist recommends what follows : « […] Le maintien des interventions adressant les problèmes d’apprentissage et l’intégration éventuelle dans un programme spécialisé devraient également aider par rapport à l’estime de soi. Pour toutes ces raisons, les mesures en place devraient être reconduites.

De plus, une orientation vers une école spécialisée en trouble de l’apprentissage comme Vanguard est souhaitable. » [ 20 ] He adds as detailed recommendations: Recommandations générales : 1. Nous recommandons une évaluation et une prise en charge en orthophonie. L’orthophoniste serait en mesure de procéder à une évaluation plus fine du langage oral et écrit et pourrait développer et mettre en place un plan d’intervention spécialisé et personnalisé pour X. Il faudrait voir la possibilité que l’accès à une telle évaluation se fasse via les services de son école.

Sinon, les parents de X sont encouragés à consulter le site de l’Ordre des orthophonistes du Québec : http://www.ooaq.qc.ca/index.html 2. Les conclusions du présent rapport devraient être présentées à l’équipe-école, afin que X puisse continuer de bénéficier d’accommodements particuliers. Ceux-ci devraient aussi s’appliquer lors des examens ministériels et au secondaire. Voici ceux qui, à notre avis, seraient les plus pertinents : a. Maintenir l’utilisation d’un ordinateur portable pour les productions écrites et la prise de notes, avec recours à l’utilisation de logiciels spécialisés (p. ex. Antidote, Word

Q) et d’un dictionnaire électronique qui permet de sauver du temps et de prioriser la réflexion, le choix des idées et la construction des phrases. b. Maintenir plus de temps pour les rédactions et pour compléter les examens. c. Maintenir la possibilité, lors des évaluations de compréhension de lecture, d’avoir les textes en avance afin de lui donner le temps de les analyser et de bien les comprendre. d. La possibilité d’effectuer ses évaluations dans un local isolé si elle le juge aidant. e.

La possibilité de pouvoir être jumelé à un autre étudiant pour la prise de notes et d’avoir accès à un aide pédagogique qui pourrait, par exemple, lire les textes de résolution de problèmes lors des examens de mathématiques. 3. Concernant la poursuite des études à l’école secondaire, X possède tout à fait les habiletés pour réussir, advenant le maintien des accommodements pour compenser le trouble d’apprentissage en lecture et en écriture.

L’intégration dans un programme spécialisé pour les élèves avec des besoins particuliers/troubles d’apprentissage nous apparaît comme pouvant être bénéfique pour appuyer X dans ses études et pour aider son estime de soi. 4. Le suivi médical pour le TDAH devrait être poursuivi, afin d’ajuster la médication au besoin. Recommandations spécifiques : 1.

Voici une liste non exhaustive d’outils et de logiciels qui pourraient appuyer X dans ses difficultés : i. http://www.antidote.info/ (Antidote; correcteur de textes) ii. https://mathetmots.com/ca-fr/wordq-speakq (Word Q; Logiciel d’aide à l’écriture et à la lecture qui comprend la prédiction de mots, la lecture à voix haute de ce que l’on écrit, etc.) iii. http://www.vbookz.com (Lecteur de textes, application pour tablette disponible) iv. openWEB (Application gratuite sur iTunes qui adapte la fonte de caractères du navigateur web) v. http://cenopfl.com/app/ (Bloups!

Est une application pédagogique conçue au Québec par une orthopédagogue pour apprendre la lecture de façon plus amusante) vi. Un crayon numérisateur de type SmartPen. Ces crayons numérisent l’écriture imprimée et la transfèrent dans un logiciel de traitement de texte. Ils peuvent aussi lire oralement le texte que l’élève sélectionne sur sa feuille. La dyslexie rend plus difficile la compréhension des questions, non seulement en français, mais aussi en mathématiques ou en sciences.

Cet outil permet d’éviter de commettre des erreurs de lecture dans les autres matières et de favoriser la compréhension et l’intégration des notions enseignées. 2. Pour favoriser le développement des habiletés verbales : - Favoriser le développement des habiletés verbales et langagières par la lecture, la communication et la discussion, l’écoute éducative

et documentaires ou de films qui favorisent la réflexion. - En vue de développer l’organisation des idées, l’argumentation, la réflexion, la logique et les habiletés synthèses, encourager les activités suivantes : a. Lire pour le plaisir et discuter de ses lectures. b. Expliquer ou décrire oralement des objets, situations, personnes, endroits, projets scolaires, règles d’un jeu, hobby, ambitions. c. Participer à des discussions concernant des sports, projets de science, émissions de télévision, film, événements culturels. d. Présenter le résumé d’un livre, film, pièce de théâtre,

article de revue/journal,… e. Localiser les mots inconnus dans le journal ou un livre et utiliser un dictionnaire pour définir les mots et en retracer l’origine. f. Écrire de façon créative à propos des réactions ou sentiments suscités par un film, une œuvre d’art, une photo, une musique. - Développer l’habitude d’utiliser un vocabulaire précis lors de ces activités. - Développer l’habitude de questionner lorsqu’on ne comprend pas bien les consignes ou le contenu d’une histoire.

Pour la lecture et l’écriture : - Tout d’abord avoir des attentes réalistes à l’égard de X et bien comprendre ce qu’est une dyslexie développementale. Entre autres, se rappeler que l’apprentissage sera long et que la dyslexie est un trouble de nature neurobiologique (constitutionnelle) qui persiste tout au long de la vie. Ceci n’implique pas que X ne pourra jamais lire sans faire d’erreurs, mais que sa lecture risque de demeurer quelque peu laborieuse, plus exigeante que pour un lecteur normal. - On devra éviter de faire lire X à voix haute en classe. 3.

Pour l’estime de soi, le sentiment de compétence et la motivation scolaire : - Porter une attention particulière aux efforts. - Récompenser ou noter régulièrement ses forces, ses talents. - L’encourager à continuer de s’impliquer dans des activités dans lesquelles elle excelle. - Lui donner des responsabilités dont elle saura bien s’acquitter. - Superviser les travaux scolaires à domicile afin de l’aider au besoin. [ 21 ] The DYP worker is conscious that the neuropsychological evaluation does not replace the FASD evaluation, and she is also aware that the ADHD and the learning disability could be a consequence of a FASD.

She remains confident to be able to obtain such evaluation in the private sector which generally does not require the biological mother’s pregnancy medical file. But as for now, she confirms that this service in a private sector had not been requested yet. [ 22 ] Before the hearing, the Court asked the DYP to provide the details of the interventions they had to do to obtain different medical authorizations from the mother and the delays to obtain such authorizations.

A complementary report was provided [1] . [ 23 ] We can see that in September 2017, an authorization had been required by the orthodontist who needed to access the dental file of the child. Despite the communication with the mother, she never gave her consent. As explained by the foster family, the specialist needed this file because it was known that X had surgery in the past.

But considering the possible consequences for X if she would not have received this care in a timely manner, the specialist decided to proceed without the dental file. [ 24 ] It is also mentioned that the foster family asks for the parental authority since 2016. In May 2018, a discussion between the DYP and the worker took place about the opportunity to seize the Court to obtain a withdrawal of parental authority considering the important lack of collaboration from the mother.

The actual DYP worker is not aware of the result of those discussions and does not know why the application was not filled at that time because there is no more notes in the file. [ 25 ] X’s siblings who are also entrusted to foster family also suffer from the consequences of their mother’s refusal and lack of interest. [ 26 ] The Court questioned the DYP worker about the reason why the Court was not seized before. She explains that the reason is the turnover in DYP staff. [ 27 ] The foster father knows X since a long time ago, as he lived in Town A, he was DYP worker and specifically responsible for X’s file.

He testifies that he knows the system very well, he knows that everything is long and doing so, when he anticipates he will need something, he asks for it a long time before. [ 28 ] The foster parents are totally conscious about X’s difficulties, they see her fighting with that every day, they do their best to help her adequately, but with time, they realize that they miss some tools. They want to receive the professional help to be able to support her adequately. [ 29 ] The foster father testifies that it is difficult to obtain appropriate services at school, first because she does not have a complete

evaluation of her needs and also because it is difficult to know who is responsible for what. The foster parents insist on the fact that it would be very helpful to have the attributes of parental authorities as they know her very well and know what she needs. [ 30 ] It is important to consider that her difficulties, if unresolved, will continue to be more and more important and the foster parents anticipate that the adolescence will be particularly challenging if nothing is done.

Analysis The attributes of parental authority and the encroachment of rights [ 31 ] As the Court said at the hearing, in the presence of the foster parents, in this file, it was not a question of being convinced of the pertinence of the application. The pertinence is obvious. [ 32 ] The question is to know why the DYP waited so long before filing such request. What could explain such a long delay before seizing the Court? [ 33 ] The only answer provided is the fact that the DYP workers changed too frequently. The Court cannot accept such answer.

Nowhere in the province of Quebec, a child had to wait and suffer so long for no reason. The Court frequently hears that there is no specialized services in Town A. X is not in Town A. She is living in the region B, but despite that, she still waits as the children living in Town A. And she is not waiting because there are no services, but because the steps were not taken to obtain it. [ 34 ] Despite all the good willingness of the foster family, their authority is limited.

They are not the parents and doing so, they do not have the attributes of parental authority. [ 35 ] In 2012, when the Court entrusted the child to them, the Court also entrusted her situation to the DYP for the application of the measures as prescribed by the law. [ 36 ] The DYP has the responsibility to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety and the well-being of the child. For sure, she is well taken care by her foster family. But there is more. As any other child, she could have specific needs and she deserves to receive appropriate services.

On their side, the foster parents, as any other parents, could be tired and despite their experience, they are not professional.

They deserve to be well supported in their commitment. [ 37 ] At the hearing, the Court declared that the rights of the child have been wronged because of the delay to obtain different services for many years and because of the delay to file the present application. [ 38 ] The following rights were also wronged: - Because the lack of intervention during many years prevent X from receiving appropriate services to put an end and prevent the recurrence of a situation in which the security and development of the child is in danger according to

section 2.3

a) YPA. 2.3. Any intervention in respect of a child and the child’s parents under this Act (

a) must be designed to put an end to and prevent the recurrence of a situation in which the security or the development of the child is in danger; and - Droit à la protection et à la sécurité – atteinte continue. [2] [78] C'est donc dire que les droits de X sont lésés de façon continue depuis avril 2008 en raison de l'importante brèche qui s'est produite à l'égard de son droit à la protection et à la sécurité. L'effet pervers de cette situation lésionnaire est de priver X de services de santé appropriés à son état. - That all decisions taken in her situation be in her best interest according to

section 3 YPA and

section 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (United Nations Human Rights); Youth Protection Act 3. Decisions made under this Act must be in the interest of the child and respect his rights. In addition to the moral, intellectual, emotional and material needs of the child, his age, health, personality and family environment and the other aspects of his situation must be taken into account. In the case of a Native child, the preservation of the child’s cultural identity must also be taken into account. Convention on the Rights of the Child

Article 3 1. In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration. 2. States Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well-being, taking into account the rights and duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals legally responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate legislative and administrative measures. 3.

States Parties shall ensure that the institutions, services and facilities responsible for the care or protection of children shall conform with the standards established by competent authorities, particularly in the areas of safety, health, in the number and suitability of their

staff, as well as competent supervision. - Her rights to receive medical and social services cares adapted to her situation according to

section 8 YPA; 8. The child and the parents are entitled to receive, with continuity and in a personalized manner, health services and social services that are appropriate from a scientific, human and social standpoint, taking into account the legislative and regulatory provisions governing the organization and operation of the institution providing those services, as well as its human, material and financial resources. The child is also entitled to receive, on the same conditions, appropriate educational services from an educational body.

Furthermore, the child and the parents are entitled to be supported and assisted by a person of their choice if they wish to obtain information or when meeting the director or any person the director authorizes.

The corrective measures [ 39 ] Before ordering any corrective measures, the Court gave the opportunity to the DYP to expose her position. [ 40 ] The DYP sent her written comments [3] and she exposes what follows: […] nous sommes conscients que X a subi des conséquences du long délai entre la demande de ses parents d’accueil concernant le retrait des attributs d’autorité parentale et le dépôt de la requête à cette fin, en mars 2020.

Ainsi, en plus des délais considérables découlant de l’accès aux médecins et aux soins de santé, la famille d’accueil a dû faire des détours administratifs afin d’avoir des diagnostics qui ont permis à l’enfant de finalement recevoir des services adaptés à ses besoins. Depuis septembre 2019, la Directrice de la protection de la jeunesse A a mis en place un nouveau modèle clinique relativement aux dossiers des enfants […].

En effet, avec l’ajout temporaire de trois (3) ressources ayant une expérience avec [la Ville A], ces intervenantes ont été affectées exclusivement à ces quelques quatre-vingts (80) dossiers de placement […].

Les objectifs visent : - Effectuer des révisions statutaires annuelles avec les collaborateurs et participer au plan d’intervention pour chaque enfant; - S’assurer que les besoins et les objectifs en lien avec le maintien de la culture de l’enfant se retrouvent au P.I.P.S.I.; - S’assurer que l’instrument de détermination et de classification des services de soutien ou d’assistance reflètent clairement les responsabilités de la famille d’accueil eu égard au maintien de l’identité culturelle; - Informer les collaborateurs sur les spécificités de la culture […] et s’assurer du respect de celle-ci à l’égard de l’enfant; - Agir en tant qu’agent de liaison entre les ressources culturelles existantes et les collaborateurs; - Assurer la liaison entre le Centre A et l’équipe de la Protection de la Jeunesse a Ville B; - Préparer, organiser, accompagner et superviser les visites des enfants [de la région A] ou des parents [de la région B]; C’est à la suite de l’application de ces nouvelles mesures que nous avons pu prendre connaissance de la situation de X et finalement, bien que tardivement, demander l’ordonnance de retrait d’attributs d’autorité parentale.

Au surplus, les mesures qui sont présentement en place permettront dans un premier temps, de faire la lumière sur ces placements et apporter des correctifs dans les dossiers d’autres enfants placés [dans la région B] si nécessaire. De plus, d’assurer une continuité de services et éviter des périodes de vide dans l’aide, conseil et assistance à ces enfants et leur famille. [ 41 ] The foster parents also transmitted a letter [4] by the way of the child’s lawyer.

It is relevant to produce the entirety of their letter: Avril 2020 Madame la juge, Suite à l’audition du 26 mars dernier concernant l’obtention des attributs parentaux pour l’enfant X, nous tenions également à vous faire part de notre vécu comme parents d’accueil face à la situation. Tout d’abord, nous tenons à vous souligner notre reconnaissance, puisque cette audition nous a permis de se sentir écoutés et reconnus, mais surtout de voir que les besoins et les droits de X étaient enfin mis de l’avant. X fait

partie de notre famille depuis bientôt huit ans. Nous savions dès le départ que son cheminement n’allait pas être facile. Nous savions qu’elle ferait face à des défis, tant émotionnels, comportementaux qu’académiques. Toutefois, nos principales difficultés se sont malheureusement avérées être celles rencontrées avec le système de la Direction de la Protection de la jeunesse dans [la région A]. La très grande majorité des visites entre fratrie ou [à la région A] furent organisées par nous.

Chaque année, nous avons respecté notre engagement de se rendre [à la région A] et ce, malgré les réticences exprimées par X et l’absence de sa mère à plusieurs visites. Nous avons également pris l’initiative à plusieurs occasions d’accueillir chez nous la fratrie de X dans le but de les réunir. Sans cette initiative de notre part, X n’aurait probablement pas vus ses frères et sœur depuis plusieurs années. À chaque fois par contre, organiser quoi que ce soit avec les services [de la région A] prenait plusieurs semaines, voire des mois. Nous avons eu la chance d’avoir une intervenante

collaboratrice au Centre jeunesse B qui s’assurait de relancer à maintes reprises les intervenants, sans quoi nos demandes seraient constamment tombées dans l’oubli. Au cours des huit dernières années, aucun intervenant [de la région A] ne nous a jamais appelés pour prendre des nouvelles de X. Nous avons également eu beaucoup de difficultés à obtenir des renouvellements de lettres d’autorisation. Chaque année, nous avions besoin de lettres renouvelées dans lesquelles la mère biologique nous autorisait à signer différents documents (services médicaux, activités sportives, etc.).

Toutefois, en près de huit ans, nous n’avons pu recevoir qu’une seule fois des lettres renouvelées et ce fut après un an de demandes récurrentes. L’intervenante au dossier nous répétait simplement que ce n’était pas essentiel et du coup, elle ne faisait pas de démarches en ce sens. Qu’il s’agisse de voyages, de sorties ou d’évaluations à venir, nous avions pris l’habitude de nous préparer plusieurs mois d’avance sachant très bien que nous aurions à attendre longtemps pour obtenir une signature.

L’intervenante nous répétait que ce n’était pas à elle à se déplacer chez la mère, mais bien à la mère de venir signer les dits documents au bureau. Pendant ce temps, X ne recevait pas les services nécessaires. Lorsque la situation devenait urgente, nous allions au privé et déboursions les frais (par exemple, une thérapie de groupe pour jeunes anxieux à 1500$) ou tentions de pallier par nos propres moyens. En 2014, la Dre Fiona Key, pédopsychiatre, a émis un diagnostic de syndrome de stress post-traumatique chez X ainsi qu’un trouble de l’attachement.

Il fut mentionné dans son rapport que la reprise de contact avec la mère biologique ranimait chaque fois le trauma chez l’enfant.

Malgré cela, aucune mesure additionnelle ne fut mise en place pour rassurer X lors des visites subséquentes. Nous étions personnellement responsables de nous assurer que les modalités de visites respectent les besoins de l’enfant. Aucun plan de visite n’était mis en place avant notre arrivée et ce, malgré nos demandes. Au cours des dernières années, notre intervenante du Centre jeunesse B a maintenu une pression constante sur les services [de la région A] afin de s’assurer que le suivi de X ne se perde pas «dans les craques du système».

Nous avons eu plusieurs discussions avec les intervenants en place [à la région A] afin de justifier nos demandes de service. Chaque fois, nous devions recommencer notre histoire et répéter la même information. C’était à nous de réacheminer les documents pertinents (ex : rapport d’évaluation pédopsychiatriques) parce que ceux-ci se perdaient. Chaque fois, on nous disait qu’au prochain événement lié au manque de collaboration de la mère, le dossier de X serait présenté au Tribunal, en vain.

Nous avons attendu près de quatre ans avant que cette action soit finalement prise et ce fut grâce à l’arrivée de Madame [intervenante 1] qui a finalement pris au sérieux la situation de X. Nous sommes d’ailleurs très reconnaissants face au travail de madame [intervenante 1]. Au cours des dernières années, nous croyons avoir fait preuve de résilience, de patience et de collaboration avec les services de la Direction de la Protection de la jeunesse au Nunavik.

Malgré nos frustrations, nous sommes demeurés courtois et avons su mettre de côté nos besoins personnels au profit des besoins de X. Nous l’avons maintenue à l’écart de ces difficultés qui, selon nous, regardait les adultes et non elle. Nous avons rempli notre mandat, assumé des frais et des responsabilités qui ne nous appartenaient pas et ce, par amour et responsabilité pour cet enfant. Nous avons maintenu un suivi régulier avec les services de la Protection de la jeunesse de Montréal.

Nous avons toujours montré une grande ouverture, voire même un désir, à devenir légalement tuteur de cet enfant afin d’éviter tous les problèmes liés aux attributs parentaux et ainsi les délais de services déraisonnables sous-jacents. Toutefois, on nous a clairement dit, et ce à plusieurs occasions, que c’était une option «politiquement non-acceptable» puisque nous sommes Blancs. Conséquemment, nous nous sommes sentis impuissants à plusieurs reprises face aux difficultés vécues par X. Nous croyons qu’en tant qu’enfant du Québec, X a droit à un plan de vie qui répond de façon optimale à ses besoins.

Nous croyons que X a droit de voir sa situation normalisée. Pourtant, les enjeux rencontrés ne nous permettent pas toujours d’assurer cette «normalité» pour elle comme nous le ferions pour nos autres enfants. Il est vrai de dire qu’au cours des dernières années nous avons été témoins de l’inaction de la mère face à plusieurs demandes. Toutefois, nous n’avons pas senti que la Direction de la Protection de la jeunesse prenait tous les moyens nécessaires pour assurer cette dite collaboration.

Nous avons senti un détachement de leur part et surtout une indifférence face aux difficultés vécues par une enfant dont ils sont légalement responsables. Il est important de souligner que nous avons la chance de travailler tous les deux dans le système de santé et de services sociaux. Nous connaissons la loi et les ressources disponibles. Nous avons un bagage clinique qui nous permet de maintenir une certaine stabilité chez X malgré les difficultés qui émergent.

Nous sommes toutefois inquiets pour tous ces enfants [de la région A] qui sont placés chez des gens n’ayant pas ce genre de connaissances puisqu’avoir réponses à ses questions et inquiétudes lorsqu’on cogne aux portes du Nunavik, c’est un réel défi. Malheureusement, nous sentons que certaines plusieurs décisions sont prises dans le but de répondre aux besoins politiques et culturels de la communauté et non aux besoins réels de l’enfant. Sachez, madame la juge que cette lettre se veut la plus objective possible.

Nous souhaitons vous partager notre expérience afin de faire la lumière sur les défis auxquels sont exposés les enfants et les familles d’accueils. Nous espérons qu’éventuellement, des moyens soient mis en place afin de s’assurer que les enfants Inuits placés à long terme ne se sentent pas « abandonnés» par le système. Pour qu’ils sentent que malgré leur histoire difficile, ils sont écoutés, supportés et reconnus. Pour qu’ils sentent que malgré tout, leurs besoins et leur développement demeurent la priorité de l’organisme en charge d’assurer leur bien-être.

Très respectueusement, Madame D Monsieur C [ 42 ] Even if the evidence of a prejudice is unnecessary to declare that the rights of a child have been encroached, in the situation of X, this prejudice is obvious and it continues to increase with the time passing. [ 43 ] For sure, the YPA does not impose to the DYP a performance obligation, but certainly impose an obligation of means. The main issue in this file is the fact that no means were taken to ensure to the child the access to the appropriate medical care and doing so to the appropriate schooling to ensure her well-being.

[ 44 ] The corrective measure has to be related to the specific situation of the child. X has important developmental issues which prevent her from a normal schooling and which affect her self-confidence. She is finishing her primary school and will start, as soon as September 2020, her secondary. It is urgent that the appropriate services be rendered to her. The professionals involved in the past suspected a FASD, but this diagnosis has to be confirmed by a specialist.

If confirmed, this specialist will be in a position to make all the appropriate recommendations to facilitate her life and to insure her development. Without this evaluation, the situation of X will continue to aggravate more and more. [ 45 ] Doing so, as corrective measure, the Court will order that she be evaluated by a FASD specialist in the public or private sector at the latest on July 31, 2020.

With such delay, the Court will be sure that the written report and the recommendations will be available for the school to implement those as soon as the very beginning of the school year 2020-2021. [ 46 ] The Court will also order the implementation of any other recommendations which do not concern schooling. [ 47 ] For sure, even if the diagnosis of FASD is not confirmed, the specialist will be invited to make any recommendations or suggestions regarding any other evaluations.

In such situation, those recommendations will also have to be applied without any delay. [ 48 ] Finally, if this specialist does not diagnose any FASD and does not submit any recommendations, the recommendations set out by Dr. Stéphane Dubé will have to be applied in the same delay, meaning at the very beginning of the school year. [ 49 ] If the child benefited, at least from the neuropsychological evaluation, it is thanks to the steps taken by the foster parents who engaged some expenses to obtain it. Such expenses should have been done by the DYP.

For this reason, the Court will order the reimbursement of the professional fees paid by the foster parents to Dr. Dubé for the expertise performed in October 2019, upon presentation of the invoice, knowing that an invoice for an amount of 1 680 $ was already filed as exhibit D-9 by the DYP. [ 50 ] The other evaluations ordered by the Court and the potential fees for the implementation of the various recommendations will have to be paid by the DYP.

This conclusion is concerning the medical cares, the social services care and also any needs regarding schooling as, for example, different technologies as a computer, private lessons and private school. [ 51 ] As the Court of Quebec, Youth division, had opportunity to mention that when the services were not provided, the most appropriate corrective measure is to ensure that the service be offered at the expense of the DYP if the public sector cannot offer it in a reasonable delay [5] . [ 52 ] In her letter, The DYP explained the measures put in place since 2019.

Since then, three new workers are supposed to assist the foster parents down South and to ensure a collaboration between the worker in [Town A] and the collaborator in the South. Unfortunately, it is obvious that X’s foster parents never heard about this person as they never mentioned his or her name or presence.

They spoke about the high level of implication from the collaborator from the Centre Jeunesse B and they also mentioned that since the actual DYP worker, Ms. [social worker 1], took this file, they receive more attention from the DYP of Town A . [ 53 ] On her side, Ms. [social worker 1] did not mention neither that the DYP of Town C have workers specially assigned to assist the foster parents in the South. The role and the real presence of those three workers are very questionable.

And if they are really responsible for taking care of the foster family, the Court has no evidence about any involvement in this specific situation. Without the comments from the DYP, requested by the Court after the hearing, the Court would have never known about this service. [ 54 ] The hiring of those three collaborators assigned to work with the foster families demonstrate the DYP’s good intention, but the Court has no other choice than to conclude that there is an important lack of communication between them, the foster parents and also with the case worker (Town

A) and the Collaborator (Town B). Unfortunately, this lack of communication harms their usefulness and prevent them from ensuring the foster children’s well-being. [ 55 ] Moreover, the evidence provided in this file, clearly shows that a reason for such delay before filing the application is due to the succession of different DYP workers. Ironically, despite the presence of numerous case workers for the last years, and additional workers specially assigned to the foster family down South, no one took the appropriate measure in the situation of X until Ms. [social worker 1] is appointed.

Also, despite Town B DYP worker’s attempts, those previous workers did not realize the seriousness of X’s situation. This file is another evidence of chronic administrative issues and a very serious lack of YPA principles understanding from the DYP workers. [ 56 ] The gravity and the recurrence of such infringements of rights and the heavy consequences raise a reasonable fear for the children’s development and safety. [ 57 ] For sure, the corrective measures to be imposed by the Court have to resolve the specific issue and should not constitute a punishment for the DYP.

As the Court of Appeal mentioned in 2012 [6] : […] La

Loi sur la protection de la jeunesse est une loi réparatrice qui, à ce titre, doit recevoir une interprétation large et libérale. […] [ 58 ] The Court of Appeal also remind that the corrective measures established at section 91 (4) has to be related to

section 2.3 a): 2.3. Any intervention in respect of a child and the child’s parents under this Act (

a) must be designed to put an end to and prevent the recurrence of a situation in which the security or the development of the child is in danger; and [ 59 ] It is obvious that the legislator cannot accept such situation for a child and also that other children could suffer the same harm. [ 60 ] Considering the duration of the encroachment of rights in the actual situation, considering the succession of case workers, considering that the numerous requests made by the foster parents and the Town B DYP worker changed nothing, considering the

measures taken by the DYP are obviously useless in the actual situation, the Court has no hesitation than to impose to the DYP the obligation to provide to her actual and future employees training about the attributes of parental authority and the circumstances in which a withdrawal can be beneficial to a child. [ 61 ] The DYP will have to offer this training within a maximum delay of three months following the date of the written decision and following that, to a minimal frequency of twice a year for the new DYP workers. [ 62 ] Finally, as the Court of Quebec [7] already had opportunity to impose as corrective measure, considering the service breakdown in the situation of X, the Court will order the DYP to put in place a procedure permitting her to be immediately informed of any other service breakdown in the future and to inform the child’s lawyer and the Commission des Droits de la Personne et des Droits de la Jeunesse about the process. [ 63 ] In the life of the child, the foster parents were always very present and continue to be very involved.

Most of the services she received are due to their involvement and commitment. By respect for their presence and implication, the Court will order that a copy of the present decision be sent to them and even if they are totally aware of the obligation of confidentiality, remind them sections 11.2, 11.2.1 and 135 Y.P.A. 11.2. Any information collected under this Act concerning a child or his parents that would allow their identification is confidential and may not be disclosed by anyone except to the extent provided for in

Chapter IV.1 or, if the information concerns the adoption of a child, to the extent provided for in

Chapter IV.0.1. 11.2.1. Within the framework of this Act, no person may publish or broadcast information allowing a child or the child’s parents to be identified, unless the tribunal so orders or so authorizes on the conditions it determines or the publication or broadcast is necessary for the purposes of this Act or a regulation made under it. Furthermore, in special cases, the tribunal may prohibit or restrict the publication or broadcast of information on a hearing of the tribunal, on the conditions it prescribes. 135. Every person who contravenes any provision of the first paragraph of

section 11.2.1 or fails, refuses or neglects to protect a child in his custody or performs acts that may endanger the security or development of a child is guilty of an offence and is liable to a fine of $625 to $5,000. [ 64 ] Also, a marked unreadable extract of the present judgment will be provided to them to ensure the application of the decision. FOR THOSE REASONS, THE COURT: [ 65 ] GRANTS the application; [ 66 ] DECLARES that the security and development of the child X, born on [...], 2008, are still endangered; [ 67 ] MAINTAINS the child in her actual foster family, namely Mr. C and Ms.

D, until she reaches her majority; [ 68 ] WITHDRAWS the total parental authority from the mother and GRANTS it to the foster family; [ 69 ] DECLARES that the rights of the child have been wronged by the Director of Youth Protection on the following aspects: - Delay to obtain different services for many years; - Delay to file the present application; - Lack of intervention during many years which prevented X from receiving appropriate services to put an end and prevent the recurrence of a situation in which the security and development of the child is in danger according to

section 2.3

a) YPA; - All decisions taken in her situation have to be in her best interest according to

section 3 YPA and

section 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (United Nations Human Rights).

AS CORRECTIVE MEASURES: [ 70 ] BLAMES the Director of Youth Protection for her decisions in all the situations in which the child’s rights were wronged; [ 71 ] ORDERS that a copy of the present decision be personally notified to the Director of Youth Protection of Town C; [ 72 ] ORDERS that X be evaluated by a FASD specialist in the public or private sector at the latest on July 31, 2020 ; [ 73 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to provide a copy of the following evaluations to this specialist: - The psychiatric assessment performed by Dr.

Fionay Key made on or around 2014; - The psychological evaluation performed by Dr. Beltempo on October 2018; - The neuropsychological evaluation performed Dr. Dubé on October 2019; [ 74 ] Even if the diagnosis of FASD is not confirmed, INVITES the specialist to make any recommendations or suggestions regarding any other evaluations;

[ 75 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to facilitate access to X’s medical and schooling files upon the different professionals’ requests; [ 76 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to verify with the school that all recommendations be adequately and entirely implemented as soon as the very beginning of the school year 2020-2021; [ 77 ] If this specialist does not diagnose any FASD and does not submit any recommendations, ORDERS that the recommendations set out by Dr.

Stéphane Dubé be applied in the same delay, meaning at the very beginning of the school year 2020-2021. [ 78 ] CONDEMNS the Director of Youth Protection to reimburse the professional fees paid by the foster parents to Dr.

Dubé for the expertise performed in October 2019, upon presentation of the invoice, knowing that an invoice for an amount of 1 680 $ was already filed as exhibit D-9 by the Director of Youth Protection. [ 79 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to assume all the fees for the different evaluations ordered by the Court and/or recommended by the specialists in the private sector if the public sector cannot provide it in a reasonable delay; [ 80 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to assume all the fees for the implementation of the various recommendations.

This is concerning the medical cares, the social services care and also any needs regarding schooling, as for example , different technologies as a computer, private lessons and private school; [ 81 ] ORDERS the implementation of any other recommendations which do not concern schooling; [ 82 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to make a close follow-up regarding the implementation of the professional recommendations and the evolution of X’s needs until she reaches her majority; [ 83 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to provide to her actual and future employees training about the attributes of parental authority and the circumstances in which a withdrawal can be beneficial to a child; [ 84 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to provide this training within a maximum delay of three months following the date of the written decision and following that, to a minimal frequency of twice a year for the new Protection workers; [ 85 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to put in place a procedure to allow her to be immediately informed of any service breakdown in the future; [ 86 ] ORDERS the Director of Youth Protection to inform the child’s lawyer and the Commission des Droits de la Personne et des Droits de la Jeunesse about the process within a maximum delay of three months following the date of the written decision; [ 87 ] ORDERS that a copy of the present decision be sent to foster parents and REMINDS them their obligation under sections 11.2, 11.2.1 and 135 Y.P.A.; [ 88 ] ORDERS that a marked unreadable extract of the present decision be sent to the foster parents to facilitate its application; [ 89 ] ORDERS the clerk to notify the present decision to the Commission des Droits de la Personne et des Droits de la Jeunesse; [ 90 ] ENTRUSTS the situation of the child X , to the Director of Youth Protection of the A C.Y.P.C., who shall then see that the measures are carried out; [ 91 ] THE WHOLE until the child reaches her majority. __________________________________ PEGGY WAROLIN , J.C.Q.

Me Karianne Asselin, attorney for the Director of Youth Protection Me Laurence Migué, attorney for the child Dates of hearing: March 24 and 26, 2020