ALBERTA
Provincial Court

ALBERTA - Provincial Court, Family Division: Re S.J.H. [2003] A.J. No. 1474 ABPC 208

FACTS:  The Director of Child Welfare submitted an application requesting the permanent guardianship of S.J.H. and C.S.  Employees from Medigene Services Inc. administered a Fetal Alcohol Assessment to each child.  The assessment revealed that both children suffered from severe deficits as a result of fetal alcohol exposure.  Although no formal diagnosis of FAS was put forth, the assessors opined that S. and C. both required special care.  Dr. Annie Steinhauer, a registered psychologist, performed an assessment of the children's home and parents.  She found that the father was a loving caregiver, but nevertheless failed to meet the needs of his children. 

HELD:  The court granted the application for permanent guardianship.