These kids aren't lost cause
They're part of a frightening merry-go-round of crime, bail,
detention, probation, then more time
Youth centre's time has run out Dec. 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 time.
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
