The social services critic for the Saskatchewan NDP is accusing the provincial government of misleading the public over its policies on housing foster children in hotels.
As of noon Monday, 23 foster children in Regina and four in Prince Albert were staying in hotels, and in July and August, a total of 68 children were cared for in hotels across the province.
Gary Prediger of the Social Services Department says it's not the government's intention to use hotels, but higher-than-average call volumes and children coming into care give them no choice but to use hotels "periodically."
In June, the ministry said putting foster children in hotels was an "emergency measure" and not a long-term option.
Soon after, an emergency shelter with 13 spaces opened up to provide relief, along with all other backup shelters, but those spaces are now full.
David Forbes, the NDP's social services critic, says the number of foster children staying in hotels is staggering.
"We are shocked and frustrated that the government misled the public," he said Monday.
The NDP is calling on the government to hire more frontline social workers to reduce caseloads, and to recruit more foster families. They also want to see the province establish a legislative standing committee on children and youth to oversee the department.
The ministry admits it is in desperate need of foster parents and homes, and says it's working to develop other long-term solutions for overflow. But officials say, in the meantime, hotels are the best option for safe care.
(CTV Regina)
This content appears as provided to The Globe by the originating wire service. It has not been edited by Globe staff.