Sections 12.61(1) and 12.51(3) of The Ombudsman and Children's Advocate Act empower a committee of Saskatchewan's Legislative Assembly, as well as the Lieutenant Governor in Council, to make referrals to the Children's Advocate for review, for investigation, and to report on matters affecting the interests and well-being of children. The Children's Advocate must carry out the request for review, investigation and subsequent report as required by the Act, except in instances where the issues lie outside his jurisdiction.
While there have been no recent referrals from the Legislative Assembly or the Lieutenant Governor in Council, the Children's Advocate has raised the issue of mandatory investigations as a potential area government should consider invoking, subject to appropriate negotiation of terms of reference and funding for the Children's Advocate Office. When assessing an issue, our Office's independent perspective can contribute to both the credibility of any outcome and an increased level of public confidence in the process.