JYAN adds voice to school shelterees issue; says protection of children must remain paramount

The Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network (JYAN) has pointed out that regardless of context relating to shelterees at schools, the protection of children must remain paramount. 

The group was reacting to claims by the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) about inappropriate behaviour of some shelterees.

In a statement jyan noted that there are obvious child protection concerns if adults are occupying spaces designated for learning. 

It said both international standards and Jamaican law, including the Child Care and Protection Act, uphold the guiding principle that the best interest of the child must always take precedence.

Executive Director Shannique Bowden said even in complex or politically sensitive situations, the duty to report concerns about potential harm to children cannot be ignored.

Bowden said teachers and school administrators are prescribed persons under the law and are duty-bound to report any situation where a child may be in need of care and protection, as such, failure to report is in direct conflict with the foundational principles of child protection.

She urged all stakeholders to move beyond debate and speculation and instead focus on urgent action. 

JYAN stressed that schools are designed to be safe spaces for children, and the presence of non- essential adults in these environments can undermine that purpose and introduce vulnerabilities. 

The network called on the ministries of education and local government to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and to provide timely updates to the public.

It said disaster response initiatives must always incorporate child protection considerations, as children are disproportionately vulnerable during these times and more likely to require care and protection.