The Ombudsman of Ontario, Paul Dubé, stated that he has "serious concerns" following instances where several child welfare agencies placed children in hotels, motels, offices, and travel trailers.

In an initiative, the Ombudsman of Canada's most populous province announced the opening of an investigation into these practices.

"We are aware of numerous incidents across the province where children have been placed in unlicensed facilities, and in many cases this raises serious concerns about their safety, privacy, and comfort," Dubé confirmed in a press release.

Dubé noted that some of his staff have met with affected children and teenagers to "gather information about their living conditions and hear their concerns firsthand."

"Some children's aid organizations reported that they have placed children in these unlicensed facilities, including their own workplaces, as a last resort due to a lack of appropriate housing solutions, especially for youth with special needs and/or challenging behaviors," said the Ontario Ombudsman's press release.

Dubé added that he will review how the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services in the Ontario government responds to this situation.

"We intend to determine what is happening and why it is happening, and provide recommendations, if necessary, to ensure that the rights of these vulnerable young people are respected," explained Dubé.

The Ontario Ombudsman did not specify when he would publish a report on the investigation he is conducting.

The Ontario Ombudsman's office reviews complaints from the public and can conduct its own investigations regarding government organizations in the province and other entities, including municipalities, universities, and child protection services.