News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The Child Death Review Committee has reviewed the deaths of three children whose families were known to the Department of Social Development. The committee’s recommendations were released today by Chief Coroner Jérome Ouellette.

The committee reviews the deaths of children under the age of 19, including those who were in the legal care of the minister of Social Development, or whose families were in contact with the department within 12 months before the child's death.

The first case concerns the death of a 10-month-old boy who died of immobilization asphyxia in his crib. The family was receiving services from the Department of Social Development.

The committee made no recommendation in this case.

The second case concerns the death of a 17-year-old boy who died of an accidental asphyxiation. He was under the care of the Department of Social Development.

The committee made no recommendation in this case.

The third case concerns the death of an 18-year-old girl who committed suicide by hanging. The family was receiving services from the Department of Social Development and mental health professionals.

The committee made the following recommendation in this case:

• That the New Brunswick Child and Youth Advocate conduct a study into the increase of multiple diagnoses present in teens and the medicated treatment they receive as a result.

A response is expected within the 45-day timeframe established in the terms of reference of the committee.

The Child Death Review Committee advises the Office of the Chief Coroner, which is part of the Department of Justice and Public Safety.