Minister Hanna Calls Groups to New Approach to Finding Solutions

The Ministry of Youth and Culture notes the recent report made by Jamaicans for Justice to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights regarding children, particularly girls, in detention.

On the basis of the report, a special sitting of the IACHR was held in Washington, DC at which Jamaica responded to the charges.  The meeting was chaired by the Commissioner of the IACHR, Mrs Rose-Marie Belle Antoine.  The Jamaican delegation was led by Ambassador Stephen Vasciannie.

Having heard from the JFJ and the response from the Government, it was noted at the meeting that Jamaica had made strides through a series of actions in improving the condition of children in detention.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the IACHR Commissioner recommended, among other things, that JFJ meets with Government officials to discuss the issues and concerns as outlined in its petition and to gain a better understanding of what is being done or planned and also to agree on a plan of action.

The Minister of Youth and Culture, the Honourable Lisa Hanna, MP has accepted the recommendation of the IACHR.  According to the Minister “the involvement of all sections of the Jamaican society team is required now to improve conditions for our children and adolescents, especially those in need of care and protection as well as to secure greater opportunities for the empowerment of our young people.”

Minister Hanna said it was time that activist groups adopted a new approach to addressing issues that affect children and youth.  She said: “the issuing of press releases is not the way to achieve meaningful reform.  It is better for us to sit at the table and discuss the issues in a frank and open manner.  We need all hands on deck.”