No culture misunderstanding when Mennonite kids removed: family services

WINNIPEG – The head of Manitoba’s family services authority says social workers were justified in removing dozens of children from an old-order Mennonite community.

Jay Rodgers says the case is unique but there was no cultural misunderstanding.

Up to 40 children from the orthodox community were taken from their parents early this year after 13 people from the community were charged with child abuse.

Parents of 18 of the children appeared in court Wednesday to regain custody.

The parents say they don’t understand why the children were taken and worry that they are losing touch with their faith and culture.

Rodgers says social workers have outlined the reasons many times in court and can’t say when or if the children will be able to return home.