In response to recommendations from the report that came out of the Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry, the provincial government established the Manitoba College of Social Workers.
The college, which opened on April 1, is being overseen by registrar Miriam Brown who has been busy processing applications from social workers wishing to become members.
"It upholds a code of ethics and a mandatory standards of practice for the profession," said Browne.
She says the new office will also provide a way for the public to file complaints on social workers.
But the college will only regulate workers with the actual title of ‘social worker’.
People listed as support workers or clerks will not be regulated and that is something that Browne doesn’t agree with.
"We just look to Commissioner Ted Hughes's report and his strong recommendation that a College of Social Workers be opened as soon as possible, and that all people working the field of social work be regulated. And we whole heartedly support his view," said Browne.
"It is important the title of ‘social worker’ be used in a consistent and accurate manner,” said a representative from the province in an email.
Retired judge Ted Hughes wrote the Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry report.
He says his recommendation was for all workers involved in child protection to be regulated under the new College of Social Workers and that they be subject to its provisions, including a code of ethics to work in the field.
“I think going forward they'd be in a better position had they found it possible to implement my recommendations, that amended the act to require anyone who practices social work under whatever title to be registered by the college. But the decision for the time being at least has been made and that will not occur," said Hughes.
Browne says the province is making a mistake.
"I'm very disappointed, very disappointed. And I would like to hope this decision can be reversed, that they will rethink this. I think it's not in Manitoba's best interest," said Browne.
She says the college offers support, training and a set of standards all workers can stand on as they do their jobs
The union representing social workers and others in the child protection field says it's up to the province and the college to say who is required to register.
