La Presse

Dozens of children wrongly removed from their parents; others, as young as nine, routinely restrained or put in seclusion; a detention facility where nine educators had sexual contact with underage detainees; a foster home where sexual assault went on for 15 years despite multiple reports to authorities… These are just some of over a dozen stories published by La Presse in 2024 exposing the rampant dysfunction in Quebec’s youth protection system. The painstakingly researched and deeply troubling findings of investigative reporters Ariane Lacoursière, Caroline Touzin, Gabrielle Duchaine and Katia Gagnon set off a shock wave that forced authorities to make major changes to the management of the provincial youth protection office. As a direct outcome of these journalists’ conscientious efforts, investigations were launched into allegations in three regional agencies; one was put under trusteeship; the provincial director of youth protection was asked to resign; and the Quebec government created the role of Commissioner for Children’s Well-Being and Rights.