BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PARENTS and guardians are being taken to task and could soon be held legally responsible for the actions of their children who engage in criminal activity.
“We must no longer accept as a society, the lame excuses from the parents...,” Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy S. Harris expressed during today's (Aug. 23) sitting of Parliament.
He explained that according to evidence, children are becoming involved in criminal activities before the age of 10 years, a situation which he said suggests that parents and other groups have failed in providing guidance to the Federation’s youth.
“The research evidence that has been provided to the government indicates that children are getting involved in troublesome youth groups as early as nine years. It means that many of our parents, fathers and mothers and significant others have dropped the ball. It may also mean that our schools have not been aggressive enough in identifying in reporting and taking action when such tendencies become evidence.
“It also has implications for the role that our religious groups must play in harnessing the kinds of values that keep the society together.”
Dr. Harris said the laws of the land would be revisited, particularly those which would make parents responsible for their children’s actions.
“I want to especially implore the parents to take responsibility for their children’s actions. We shall study the existing laws in our Federation and seek to implement those laws that make parents accountable for their children’s actions.”
“…We again as parents have to reflect upon the tragedy… There are too many silent…who are providing support, who are harbouring the criminals. They are as guilty for the tragedy and the upsurge as the criminals themselves who do the deliberate act.”
The Prime Minister thanked those who continue to assist both the Government and the Police in fighting crime and those who continue to offer constructive criticism in this regard.
On the other hand, he implored the public to step up their support for the Police and law and order in the land.
