T&T government establishes Children's Authority

The government of Trinidad and Tobago is establishing a Children’s Authority within the Ministry of the People and Social Development to help needy children.

In addition, the authority will monitor homes for children to ensure that authorities do not allow kids to be mistreated and abused.

People Minister Dr Glenn Ramadharsingh made the announcement Wednesday. There have been allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of children at the St Mary’s Children Home in Tacarigua, which was established in 1857.

An investigating team appointed by the minister heard allegations of physical, sexual and mental abuse of those under the care of the institution but was unable to find conclusive evidence.

However, the minister said the committee uncovered improper behaviour between some students which he said can be managed "once the proper psychological help is given.”

He noted that the committee recommended that better qualified staff be hired for the home and to institute psychometric testing and a care program for all staff within the next three months.

Ramadharsingh told reporters he hopes to create a model children’s home. "All other homes would have to measure up to this. The idea is to bring the most vulnerable children to this home,” he said.

“We are going to put a monitoring officer 24 hours a day, seven days a week at all homes within one month time,” Ramadharsingh said. In addition he promised to ensure that two Government Medical Service Officers will be available to examine children in all children homes throughout the country.