Minister of Children and Family Development Stephanie Cadieux has released the following statement regarding the government’s decision to file notice to appeal the recent decision of Justice Walker in the J.P. matter:

“I want to make clear that today’s decision is not about the family involved, but about every family that the ministry may interact with in the future. B.C. government lawyers advise me there is reason to believe the trial judge erred in a number of areas, and an appeal is warranted.

“This appeal does not impact the work being done by Bob Plecas, as he is reviewing practice and policy in the ministry. Should staff concerns arise through the Plecas review, they will be examined further by a separate human resources review. This is in accordance with prudent human resource practice.

“The appeal in no way diminishes the support services available from government to those who have been and continue to be impacted by this case and the ministry will be extending additional supports as needed.

“Since the matter is now before the courts, the ministry is unable to comment further.”