I, as a concerned citizen having once resided in Alberta, Canada, am deeply troubled by the current state of child support enforcement in that province. As a parent who has been tirelessly fighting for my child's rights and well-being, I have personally experienced the devastating effects of unpaid child support. My son is owed over $56,000 in unpaid child support, and it is disheartening to witness the lack of accountability from deadbeat parents, especially my son’s who still resides there!

Maintenance Enforcement Alberta had once taken proactive measures to ensure that these delinquent parents fulfill their financial obligations towards their children. However, much to my dismay and that of countless other struggling parents, they have recently removed the department responsible for holding these individuals accountable – the Default Hearing Department.

This decision has left many families in dire straits and without any hope for justice. By eliminating this crucial department, Maintenance Enforcement Alberta has effectively hindered our ability to seek proper enforcement measures against those who refuse to pay their fair share.

The consequences are far-reaching: children are being denied access to basic necessities such as food, clothing, education, and healthcare due to this negligence. Moreover, it perpetuates a cycle of poverty and instability that affects not only individual families but also our society as a whole.

It is imperative that we reinstate the Default Hearing Department within Maintenance Enforcement Alberta immediately! This department played a vital role in ensuring compliance with court-ordered child support payments by implementing various enforcement actions such as wage garnishments or seizing assets when necessary.

To further emphasize the urgency of this matter and provide an accurate representation of its impact on Albertans like myself:

1. According to Statistics Canada's Survey on Labour Income Dynamics (SLID), approximately 32% of single-parent households experience persistent low income.
2. The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives reports that unpaid child support accounts for billions of dollars in Canada, placing an enormous burden on custodial parents and their children.
3. A study conducted by the University of Alberta revealed that children who receive consistent child support payments have better educational outcomes and improved overall well-being.

By reinstating the Default Hearing Department, we can restore hope to countless families struggling to provide for their children's basic needs. This department's expertise in enforcing court-ordered child support payments is vital for holding deadbeat parents accountable and ensuring the financial stability of single-parent households.

I urge Maintenance Enforcement Alberta to recognize the urgency of this matter and take immediate action to reinstate the Default Hearing Department. Our children deserve a fair chance at a bright future, free from financial hardship caused by absent parents who shirk their responsibilities.

Together, let us stand up for justice and demand that our government prioritize the rights and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens – our children!

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue that affects so many families across Alberta.