Instances of physical abuse, unqualified staff and a need for relocation are among the key findings of the Departmental Enquiry into the Government Industrial School (GIS).
A report of the findings and accompanying recommendations were revealed today by Chair of the Enquiry, Oral Williams, during a press conference at the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The probe was launched in May this year after several allegations of abuse and mistreatment surfaced from past and present wards of the institution.
A total of 89 people appeared before the panel and 109 interviews were conducted, including with past and present residents and staff members, medical personnel who interacted with residents and the public.
Mr. Williams confirmed the findings point to a few cases of physical abuse. He could not however say more on this matter, so as not to prejudice any legal matters, as the report is to be sent to the commissioner of police.
Another discovery was that several staff members employed by the GIS lacked the necessary qualifications and expertise to do the jobs they hold.
A staff audit is to be conducted and the panel has recommended that those staff members deemed unfit be redeployed elsewhere in the public service.
The report also recommends government accelerate the process of enacting new child justice legislation, as the current one has been in place since 1926.
In response, Minister of Home Affairs, Wilfred Abrahams said the new legislation should be brought before Cabinet soon.
Mr. Abrahams also provided an update on plans to move female wards from Barrows, St. Lucy to the facility at Dodds, St. Philip, which currently houses their male counterparts.
The full news conference will be repeated at 9:03 this evening, Monday 19th September 2022, on CBC TV 8.
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