In 1987, the Ombudsman’s Office began an Ombudsman Initiated Complaint after being contacted by a person who said that authorities were investigating reports of sexual abuse at the Jericho Hill Provincial School for the Deaf. The complainant expressed concerns that nothing would be done to ensure the safety of the children in the residences.

We had telephone conversations with some individuals who were providing services to students who disclosed abuse. We spoke with Ministry of Education staff who informed us that improvements and changes arising out of the investigation would be implemented. In November 1987, the Ombudsman’s Office received written confirmation from the Ministry of Education, through the school administrator, that actions were being taken to address the issues resulting from abuse allegations. We were told that the allegations of abuse had been addressed and that students were receiving therapeutic services. At that time, we were also informed that changes would be made to the facility and that staff would participate in training to understand the dynamics of sexual abuse. We maintained an open file to monitor the implementation of these improvements.

The Ombudsman became involved again in November 1991. We received a complaint from a person who alleged that not all of the improvements or changes suggested as a result of the 1987 investigation had been implemented in spite of assurances we had received.