Publication ban on children in care deaths lifted

With the proclamation of Bill 11 on July 24, Human Services Minister Manmeet S. Bhullar has delivered on his promise to lift the publication ban on children who have died while in government care. Lifting the ban was discussed as part of a limited-topic two-day workshop hosted by Bhullar in January. “I believe it is a basic right of each and every one of us to express grief publicly. This decision is not one for the government to make; it is one for those closest to the child to make,” said Bhullar, in a statement. Media may now publish the names and photos of children who have died in care.  However, parents with children in care as well as the children’s guardian, which is the province in most cases, may request a publication ban. Bhullar said that process for a publication ban will be revised and made simpler.