When parents separate, children have rights. In a conflict between parents, it would be helpful for the child to be represented by a lawyer, if necessary, to assert the child's interests, without of course reducing the three parties' access to legal aid.
UNICEF Canada recommends that the child's opinion be considered, based on criteria other than the child's age.
We think that would make the child's best interests the central concern in divorce cases. Would you agree with the proposal that the government should provide for representation for the child, if necessary?