The Government will continue dialogue with all stakeholders to find solutions to safeguard the nation’s children and assist in their overall development. That’s the commitment being made by Justice Minister, Delroy Chuck following reports from Jamaicans for Justice of children being thrown behind bars due to uncontrollable behaviour.
Speaking recently at a National Integrity Action Justice of the Peace Sensitization Session, the Minister stated that the issues highlighted by Jamaicans for Justice were issues that the Government contemplated, and which were also addressed by the Office of the Children s Advocate. Consequently, when the Child Diversion Act, was being developed, certain provisions were included to provide more and better options to deal with the children deemed beyond control, especially since these children are in fact children in need of care and protection, according to section 8 of the Child Care and Protection Act.
Now, under section 24 of the CCPA, a parent or guardian may bring a child before the court because the child may be deemed beyond control. Where the evidence before the court discloses that the child is indeed beyond control, the court may make certain orders to address the issues with the child.
However, the Minister says oftentimes, the judges are uncertain of how to handle cases with these children.
KHADIJAH THOMAS
