New unit to facilitate re-integration of delinquent youths

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, January 31, 2018

The Ministry of Social Protection will be creating an independent unit that will be responsible for the reintegration of delinquent youths in penal institutions such as the New Opportunity Corp (NOC), Essequibo Coast and the Juvenile Detention centre in Georgetown.

Wentworth Tanner, Director of Social Services, Ministry of Social Protection.

Director of Services, Wentworth Tanner explained that the unit will be established by the end of 2018. He said that the purpose is to facilitate the successful reintegration of not only youths but other individuals who are in conflict with the law, thereby reducing the possibility of them reoffending.

Tanner told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the ministry has recognised that the issue of reintegration of juveniles requires special attention. He said that in order for it to be addressed wholistically, a unit needs to be created.

“…So even persons on parole from prison, they will be taken through that process, connected with different organisations for support and work closely with the ministry to identify any deficiencies or areas where they need help so that we can, as far as is possible successfully reintegrate them into society,” Tanner said.

The Director of Services pointed out that the ministry has already advertised for a Coordinator for Reintegration, After Care and Juvenile Justice Services. That person will head the unit.

Tanner added that the unit will also be working closely with the community in that regard.

 

By: Synieka Thorne

 

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