MCFD recognizes responsibility – Kelowna News

The Ministry of Children and Family Development recognizes "responsibility" for the actions of Kelowna social worker, accused of theft of money for vulnerable young people in his care.

On Thursday, the ministry filed a response in a court register in Vancouver in a lawsuit filed by a public trustee and guardian involving Kelowna's former social worker Robert Riley Saunders.

In its response, the Ministry also agrees that general compensation and judicial interest for the plaintiff are appropriate in one of several lawsuits involving several young people.

"The Province acknowledges that Mr Saunders is negligent, defamatory and has turned the plaintiff's money into a wrong function in public office, fraud and violated fiduciary duties against the claimant, and further admits that the applicant suffered damage as a consequence," the document says.

Furthermore, Saunders admitted that he had been shifted to funds in March, and measures were taken to ensure the immediate safety of children and youth in his case. A forensic judgment began, which was reported to the police.

The MCFD will start a separate review of its contract and payment procedures.

"Since the accusations were first established, the ministry offered support and services, including counseling, children and adolescents affected by social workers," the ministry said.

"The MCFD will cooperate with a plaintiff's lawyer to deal with these matters in such a way as not to cause further injury to affected individuals".

Thursday's reactions apply only to a specific lawsuit filed by public administrators and custodians.

The ministry says it will respond in a timely manner to all other legal acts.