Thursday, July 28, 2016

CPSU STATEMENT RE NT JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM

July 26, 2016

Statement:

The CPSU is shocked and appalled at the shameful actions within the Northern Territory juvenile justice system as revealed on last night’s edition of the ABC’s Four Corners Program.

The union fully supports the establishment of a Royal Commission into youth justice in the Northern Territory in response to disturbing and unacceptable behaviour and also believes that immediate steps must be taken to ensure the welfare of children currently being held in detention, including moving youth justice out of the NT Department of Correctional Services.

The CPSU also believes that any inquiry must also have a national focus to ensure children being held in custody are being treated humanely around the country.

We will actively encourage members and staff to be part of the Royal Commission and any other process.

We have been calling for several years for the closure of the Don Dale detention centre and the construction of a purpose-build facility that properly serves the needs of children including the provision of adequate rehabilitation services, respects their rights and ensures the safety of children in custody, staff and visitors.

The union has had to fight the NT Government for even the most basic amenities including first aid kits and fire extinguishers in the current centre, as well as proper training for staff and the introduction of proper operating procedures.

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