The Betts v Whittingslowe inferential reasoning on causation (breach coupled with harm of the relevant kind justifies an inference of causation absent sufficient reason to the contrary) cannot be invoked to prove that harm actually occurred during a relevant period — it operates only to establish a causal link between an established breach and established harm. The legal onus of proof on causation remains with the plaintiff throughout in negligence by omission cases; only the evidentiary onus may shift. A child welfare authority's statutory duty to investigate does not convert it into a detective agency; the standard is reasonableness, not perfection.
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