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These
kids aren't lost cause
They're
part of a frightening merry-go-round of crime, bail,
detention, probation, then more crime
Youth centre's time has run outDec.
26, 2003
Letter to the Editor - re: Editorial,
Dec. 19
The
reports concerning the Toronto Youth Assessment Centre should
make us all sit up and take notice, not just about this
facility, but at how the justice system deals with young
offenders. That such horrid conditions exist speaks volumes
about the people who are charged with the care and supervision
of these youngsters. It is no secret that they are woefully
underpaid, that there is a high turnover of staff, and,
obviously, training is insufficient.
Given
these serious deficits, it is no wonder that the inmates are
running amok.
But
it is not just at this facility that problems exist. Just ask
these kids about things that happen in holding cells at bail
courts, for example.
Staffing
concerns affect all youth detention facilities. That, however,
is only part of the problem. The Youth Criminal Justice Act is
supposed to prevent youngsters from residing in such
facilities in the first place, instead directing them to
public programs that will help them turn around and become
positive members of society. Fat chance. While fewer kids are
being incarcerated, the programs to help the non-detained,
troubled youngster are few and far between, and so they
become, instead, a part of a frightening merry-go-round of
crime, bail, detention, probation, and then more crime.
The
federal government changed the act, ensuring fewer youths are
detained, but the provincial government did not put money into
the programs so necessary to helping these misguided kids find
their way. Waiting lists for existing programs are long.
Serious support for mental health issues, and well-paid and
well-trained counsellors are all lacking and these kids pay
the price. Oh well, give them a few years and they can become
a part of the adult jail system — and we know we have
wonderful super jails for them.
Indeed,
while the TYAC is a disgrace; it speaks clearly about how we
view youths who are troubled and who create problems in
society. But if we close this facility and build a sparkling
new one, the problems will remain. Instead, we must put money
into rehabilitative programs, we must train and pay people who
work with these kids much better (and it is very difficult,
stressful work), and make mental health services easily,
quickly, and effectively accessible.
But
most important, let's not treat these kids as though they are
a lost cause. Most aren't.
Connie
Zoet, Courtice
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