Children and Family Development Minister Katrine Conroy has released the following statement regarding the Representative for Children and Youth’s announcement that he will resign from the position at the end of August:

“I want to wish Bernard Richard the best, and take this opportunity to thank him for his dedicated service as British Columbia’s Representative for Children and Youth. He’s been a staunch advocate and a champion for children and families in our province. It’s a shame to lose someone of his character and stature.

“I certainly appreciate the passion he brought to the role, and his willingness to work constructively with the ministry to improve outcomes for children and youth. I spoke with him on numerous occasions about our shared goal of making life better for some of B.C.’s most vulnerable.

“I wish him the best for the future, and in his next role.”