The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs says it remains firm in its zero-tolerance policy on corporal punishment and any form of violence against children. The ministry released a statement following an alleged incident involving a minor at the New Beginnings Youth Development Centre.
According to the ministry, on July 15 it was alerted to an incident in which an officer allegedly used violence against a child under state care. The child was immediately given medical attention and later escorted to the Hattieville Police Station to make an official report. The child’s family was also notified, and the ministry says it is awaiting further input from them to proceed with the criminal investigation.
In the meantime, the officer involved has been placed on immediate leave and barred from returning to the facility. Steps toward their termination have already been initiated.
The ministry said that New Beginnings, with the help of international partners, is undergoing a complete overhaul of its policies and programs to strengthen protection for children and ensure that strict no-violence standards are upheld.
The ministry said it “remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding children and upholding their rights to protection, care, and dignity.”