-Mrs. Nagamootoo says Act considers well-being, best interest of juveniles

THE Juvenile Justice Act, which was recently passed in the National Assembly, has created a juvenile system which is rational, fair and in line with Guyana’s international treaty obligations under the United Nations Convention on the rights of the child.

“It is one that would improve synergy among departments, agencies and ministries responsible for juvenile justice,” said Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, at the Rights of the Child (RCC) Prayer and Breakfast held at the Marriott Hotel on Saturday.
On a day when prayers were offered for vulnerable young people across the country, the minister said the Government will continue to ensure that juveniles are kept safe from harm.

Although the legislation holds young offenders accountable for their actions, it also protects them from harm and increases their chance of having a better life. It also manages the risk they pose to themselves and to society.
“If they do come into contact, then rehabilitation methods must be employed from the time they are arrested,” she said.

The ministry is equipped to cater for the needs of children who are predisposed to delinquency but are under the age of criminal responsibility, said the minister, adding that the ceremony was also an opportunity to highlight and examine what they can do.
Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, wife of the Prime Minister, said the event was geared towards raising the consciousness about the condition of children who come into contact and conflict with the law.

“This Juvenile Justice Act places the well-being of juveniles and the best interest of children as paramount when the courts make a decision on punishment. The law encourages and facilitates juveniles to have a meaningful life in their communities through rehabilitation, education and reintegration,” said Mrs. Nagamootoo.

The objective of the exercise on Saturday was to mobilise and enlist the support of the religious community in protecting and advancing the rights and interest of Guyanese children, especially those who may be deemed vulnerable and those who come into contact with the law.

The RCC, in partnership with UNICEF, hosted the event for the second consecutive year themed “Helping our children to find the right path”. This theme was cited as a keen component of the RCC’s mission and philosophy in engaging the children of Guyana.

As part of this process, the RCC has engaged the children of Annandale Secondary School, Buxton Secondary School, President’s College, Skeldon Line Path Secondary School, Sophia Holding Centre and those penal system viewed as young offenders at the Timehri prison.