OASYS workshop to be held for rehabilitative Child and Youth Justice System

From Monday, Jan 29 to Wednesday, Jan 31, The Department of Social Services, in conjunction with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and USAID, will conduct a 3-day workshop on accelerating the Opportunities to Advance and Support Youth for Success Project (OASYS).

The aim is to foster youth justice activities in participating OECS states. To accomplish this, a work plan (comprising various activities) has been developed that will span two years and is supported by the partnership of the OECS and USAID to the tune of  USD 5 million.

According to Martin Anthony, Consultant attached to the Department of Social Services, three areas of focus for the upcoming workshop will be a review of the Child Justice Bill, an examination of youth justice policies, and to develop or identify interventions in diversion, aftercare, and reintegration.

Mr Anthony stressed that a review of the Child Justice Bill in this country is crucial at this point, stating that last year parliament enacted five harmonised family model bills, with the notable exception being the Child Justice Bill. Efforts are being concerted to have the bill passed into law.

The hopeful outcome of this workshop in Dominica is to have tailored recommendations for child justice.

Meanwhile, under the broader programme, various national workshops are being conducted across member states and will culminate in a Regional Forum where representatives will explore continued harmonization and the maintenance of the foundation of the work toward a rehabilitative Child and Youth Justice System.

The opening ceremony is on Monday at 9 a.m. at the Goodwill Parish Hall. Hon Dr Cassandra Williams, Minister with responsibility for Social Services, among others, will deliver remarks.

Participants will include stakeholders from several sectors such as law enforcement and education.