Protection of Children Involved in Prostitution Act update
by Garnet Lewis

Children are Alberta's most precious resource. In the two years since Alberta's groundbreaking Protection of Children Involved in Prostitution (PChIP) Act came into force, more than 220 child prostitutes have been taken off the streets.

The most recent statistics reveal a total of 507 apprehensions since 1999 under PChIP and the Child Welfare Act. Children from 12 to 17 years of age have been apprehended. Over 480 apprehensions have resulted in the children being placed in a protective safe house.

Solicitor General Heather Forsyth sponsored the PChIP bill as an MLA, and zealously helped guide it through the legislative process. The focus of the initial bill was, as it remains today, protecting vulnerable children and doing everything possible to get them off the street.

Detective Jo Ann McCartney from the Edmonton Police Service Vice Unit says the problems haven't totally gone away, but she has noticed a big difference on the streets since PChIP came into effect.

"Pimps now realize it is a bad business decision to recruit kids and put them on the streets," says McCartney. "We've seen a big reduction in the whole recruitment of kids by pimps."

Amendments to the Protection of Children Involved in Prostitution Act came in to force in March 2001. Under the changes, the initial confinement period is extended for up to five days from the previous 72 hours. A child may be confined for up to two additional periods of a maximum of 21 days each.

The additional time helps social workers stabilize the child, break the cycle of abuse and begin the recovery process in a safe and secure environment.

The amendments also ensure children's rights are protected. As soon as a child is confined, the child is informed in writing why he or she is confined, the duration of confinement, court dates and the right to legal representation. The child is given the opportunity to contact Legal Aid. In addition, each child is told he or she may request a court review of the confinement.

Alberta's Protection of Children Involved in Prostitution Act is unique. It has gained international attention for recognizing child prostitutes as victims of child abuse.