Last week, the B.C. Human Rights Commissioner released the final report from the Inquiry into detentions under the Adult Guardianship Act (AGA), uncovering serious concerns about transparency, oversight, and the protection of fundamental rights.
The AGA authorizes designated agencies—such as health authorities—to provide emergency assistance to adults who appear to be abused or neglected and are believed to be incapable of consenting to or refusing care. However, the report, titled “We’re Still Here”, highlights troubling gaps in the law. It found that the legislation lacks clarity around the scope and application of these emergency powers and concludes that the right to liberty is not being adequately balanced with the need to protect vulnerable adults.
“This inquiry has revealed a need for significant changes to how we treat, protect and respect vulnerable adults, including to law and policy,” said Commissioner Kasari Govender.
To read the full press release and access the complete report, visit: bchumanrights.ca
Commissioner Govender will further discuss the report’s findings during an upcoming BC CRN Provincial Learning Event on Tuesday, May 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon (PDT). The free online session will explore:
- How community voices shape human rights policies and education in BC
- The role of the BC Human Rights Commissioner in advancing equity and justice
- Key insights from the AGA inquiry
Register here: bccrns.ca/event/ple-may-20-2025
