LAW PROTECTS KIDS

Children who live in homes where street drugs are manufactured or
trafficked can be taken immediately into the protective custody of
Alberta Children's Services.

This is the essence of a new Alberta law called the Drug-endangered
Children Act, which takes effect on Wednesday. It defines children
who live in drug houses as abused and allows social workers to take
swift action to remove them from dangerous circumstances.

"There's no question these kids are at risk," said David Horricks,
executive director of Parkland Youth Homes. He supports the
legislation but wonders why a new law was needed. Shouldn't children
of drug traffickers be protected under the existing Child, Youth, and
Family Enhancement Act, questioned Horricks.

The difference is that the new law gives social workers broader scope
to take action, said Catherine Pohl, a manager at the Central Alberta
Child and Family Services Authority.

While much assessment might be needed before children can be removed
from some situations under existing laws, the new legislation ensures
social workers "can act quicker and more decisively," said Pohl.

Research has found that children who live in homes that manufacture
or traffic serious drugs are at high risk of chronic respiratory
disorders, neurological damage, cancer and physical, emotional or sexual abuse.

Catholic Social Services director Karen Murphy wasn't familiar with
the new law, but she said she supports any legislation that protects
vulnerable children.

Horricks said parents who manufacture or traffic drugs are clearly
not making parenting a priority. Not only are their children being
exposed to dangerous chemicals, situations and people, but the
parents are also very poor role models.

"They will be perpetuating the next generation to do the same thing."

But considering all the social ills that children are exposed to,
Horricks believes relatively few kids in the province are growing up
in drug houses, compared with those with alcoholic parents, for example.

Pohl said children of abusive or neglectful alcoholics are provided
for under existing legislation. Alberta's problem with drug
trafficking and manufacturing is seen as a broadening social problem
with imminent dangers, so swift protection for children in these
circumstances is needed.

She hopes publicity about the Drug-endangered Children Act will
encourage members of the public to call Alberta Children's Services
if they know minors are living in homes where dangerous drugs are made or sold.