The Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act supports the development and well-being of Alberta's children, youth and families while keeping them safe and protected. It is groundbreaking legislation that responds to the needs of today's families and demonstrates the Alberta government's commitment to children. The act came into force on November 1, 2004.

The act provides for more services to families before they reach crisis, more quickly establishes permanent homes for children in government care, allows increased access to adoption information, and strengthens the involvement of First Nations, Métis and other Aboriginal communities in planning for their children.

The Enhancement Act places greater emphasis on, and accountability for:

• the safety and well-being of children
• permanent placements for children
• the involvement of children and families in decision-making
• increased collaboration and partnerships with the community

Access to identifying information contained in adoption records will be opened under the Enhancement Act. This change will affect all adoptions granted in the province prior to January 1, 2005. Birth parents and adoptees, who are 18 years of age and older, may obtain identifying information about one another unless a veto is place at the time of the request.

The Enhancement Act was developed through an extensive consultation with stakeholders and the public during the Child Welfare Act Review led by MLA Harvey Cenaiko in 2001-02. The Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act will replace the Child Welfare Act.

Oct. 2004